The snow is here, and that means conditions are changing! While it's great to get out and have fun in the snow, winter can be a hazard if you do not take precautions. With more cold weather on the horizon, make sure you prepare accordingly with these tips!
What you need to know:
- Whenever temperatures drop dramatically below normal, staying warm and safe can become challenging...especially for those who may be new to the region and not used to changing weather.
- Winter weather conditions in Northern BC can quickly become dangerous with little or no warning.
- Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues when exposed to cold temperatures.
- A normal body temperature is approximately 37°C. When your core body temperature drops by 1-2°C or your body is exposed to severe cold, your risk of harmful effects increases.
What you can do:
- Dress warmly when you go outside during cold weather.
- Wear layers of clothing with a wind-resistant outer layer.
- You can remove layers if you get too warm before you start sweating or add a layer if you get cold.
- Wear warm socks, gloves, hat, and scarf.
- Choose footwear that's best suited for ice and snow.
- In extremely cold conditions, cover as much exposed skin as possible.
- If you get wet, change into dry clothing right away; you lose heat faster when you are wet!
- Check the Environment and Climate Change Canada weather forecast before you go outside.
- Watch for wind chill or extremely cold temperatures and stay indoors if you can.
For more information:
safetyandsecurity@cnc.bc.ca