Environment and Climate Change Canada issues extreme cold alerts based on local climate conditions, and they are put into effect when significant cold temperatures or wind chills are expected to occur for at least two hours.
- Dress warmly
- dress in layers; the outer layer should be wind resistant.
- synthetic and wool fabrics provide good insulating properties.
- Cover up
- frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill.
- watch for colour changes on fingers and toes, pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or swelling.
- Keep dry to stay warmer.
- Keep moving to maintain your body heat and seek shelter from the wind.
- If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside.
- Check on family, friends and neighbours.
- Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, such as extra blankets and jumper cables.
- Make sure your home is well-insulated; the heating system is working efficiently and seals off cracks and drafts.
