With winter expected to be coming to the region starting this week, the local health unit and the Ontario Provincial Police are offering some safety tips.
A winter day starts with everyone being proactive. Depending on the weather the day could be challenging on the roadways with icy roads, reduced visibility and heavy snowfall posing challenges.
Always check the weather forecast as this will help determine what you need to do each day. If the conditions are extremely cold, limit your time outside for yourself and your pets. If you must be outside in extreme cold, watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
Skin impacted by frostbite may feel painful or numb, and may change in colour to white or greyish. Hypothermia or other low body temperature challenges may show up in symptoms like shivering, drowsiness, slurred speech, confusion and memory loss.
In terms of snow removal, it's important to dress in warm layers of clothing. This includes boot, hats, gloves and anything else that covers the skin. If you are shovelling snow it is important to watch for signs of injury or exertion. Clear snow away from your home and vehicles to help prevent carbon monoxide from building up.
Once inside, drink warm fluids, and find ways to stay warm including new dry clothing, and blankets.
When you are heading out on the roadways, the old saying remains true, if you see snow go slow. When you are travelling in the winter don’t travel alone if possible, and if you have to make sure you tell someone where you are going. It is also important to make sure you have plenty of gas, and an emergency kit in your vehicle with a blanket, phone and charger, shovel, booster cables, candles and matches, flashlight and extra batteries as well as water and snacks.
Winter driving starts with preparing for the snow, even before it flies. Install winter tires, which help improve traction and control in snow and ice. Check your battery as cold weather impacts performance. Also inspect wipers, lights and fluids, this includes replacing wiper blades if they are worn-out, make sure your lights are working properly, and refill washer fluid with winter-grade solutions.
When you are actually driving, remember it's a sprint not a race, so leave early so you can drive slowly and with road conditions. Increase the distance between your vehicle and other vehicles to give yourself more time to react in case of an emergency. Avoid sudden maneuvers. Police recommend making small changes in speed or direction to help prevent losing control.
Lastly, police remind everyone to clear the snow and ice off their vehicles, and this includes your roof, windows, mirrors and lights.
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