Winter may be off to a late start in some parts of Canada, but make no mistake: it’s here to stay for a while. If you can’t escape it, at least you can enjoy it — and we’re here to offer a little help.
Here are some of our top tips for embracing the season.
Safety first
– Check conditions before you head out. Whether we’re commuting or heading out for a day of outdoor adventure, we Canadians have good reason to be obsessed with the weather. Sudden drops in temperature, freezing rain, poor visibility and wind chill factors can affect our safety. If tuning into your favourite weather source isn’t enough, look for weather alert services for email or your mobile device.
- Be extra cautious in trouble spots. Big surprise winter is prime time for falls — snow, slush and ice can make walkways, steps and parking lots dangerous. If you can’t avoid those slippery surfaces, try leaning forward slightly and take shorter strides when you walk. Try to “stay loose” and avoid locking your knees. (Shuffling works too!)
Also, be careful getting in and out of cars — that’s when a lot of falls occur.
- Choose the right footwear. Some boots just can’t handle a Canadian winter. Experts say to choose sturdy, supportive footwear with heavy treads that are made from rubber or a non-slip material. (They won’t be sexy, but they’ll be safe.) Slip on grips or cleats can also offer extra traction on packed snow and ice.
- Warm up before winter fun. Cold muscles, joints and tendons are more prone to injury — especially your calves and Achilles tendons. Make sure your body is warmed up properly before undertaking any winter activities.
And yes, that includes everyone’s favourite chore: snow shovelling. Warm up your muscles with some light activity like marching on the spot for a few minutes. Don’t forget to give your muscles a stretch — especially your arms and back.
- Practice safer snow removal. Got a snow blower instead? Make sure you read the instructions and safety warnings first, and always turn it off and use a stick or tool to clear any blockages. (Never use your hands — that’s how most snow blower injuries happen.) Watch out for any foreign objects in your path (like stones), and avoid any loose fitting clothing or scarves.
For more information, see the U.S. Consumer Product Safety and Commission Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety websites.
- Know the warning signs of hypothermia and frostbite — and what to do. Cold injuries like frostbite, frostnip (the first stage of frostbite) and hypothermia can be harmful and even life threatening. Experts warn to brush up on the symptoms and first aid season. For instance, changes to the skin’s appearance could signal frostnip or frostbite, and uncontrollable shivering could mean hypothermia has set in. (For full details, see Environment Canada and the Mayo Clinic’s advice for frostbite and hypothermia.)
