Winter weather tips

The Town of Edson is reminding residents and travelers to be prepared for winter weather.

When severe winter weather threatens, here are a few tips from our Protective Services Department to keep you and your families safe:

• Dress warmly and in layers with a wind resistant outer layer. Synthetic and wool fabrics are good for insulating.

• Wear warm socks, mittens/gloves, a hat, scarf, and warm waterproof footwear. If it is extremely cold, cover as much exposed skin as possible.

• Keepdry.Ifyou get wet, change clothes as soon as possible. Wet clothing chills the body rapidly.

• If the weather calls for temperature below -40C, take shelter indoors. Sometimes it’s better to wait out the weather.

• If it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s too cold for your pet to be outside.

• Watch for signs of frostbite, such as numbness or white areas on your face or extremities (ears, nose, cheeks, hands and feet).

• Watch for signs of hypothermia. This includes confusion, slurred speech, stiff muscles, or uncontrollable shivering. Hypothermia is a potentially fatal condition.

• Check on elderly relatives and neighbours to make sure they are warm and have enough supplies.

• Keepemergency supplies in your car. Blankets and jumper cables are handy, as well as snacks, candles, and warm clothes in the event you are stranded longer than planned.

• Have an emergency kit on hand and a plan in place.

• Take extra care when driving. Snow and ice can reduce tire traction and blowing or heavy snow can make visibility poor. Always check the weather and road reports before hitting the road.

For more winter tips visit https://www.getprepared. gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/sfttps/ tp201101-eng.aspx