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Be ready for winter

Nov 1, 2012 | 3:32 PM

The recent warmer weather is not likely to return for several months but winter’s icy grip surely is here to stay. As we all bundle up and get used to the colder temperatures we all need to remember a few simple things.

• Dress for the weather – that means layers starting with a wind proof outer shell. Then something that keeps heat in such as nice wool sweater or fleece jacket. Then next to the skin something with cotton to wick away the sweat. Dressing in layers gives you flexibility to remove layers if you are exercising and things do warm up.
• Wear a toque – we lose a lot of heat from our heads so it’s important we keep heat in.
• Gloves or mitts – are essential to keep your hands and fingers warm. Just like a toque it will prevent frostbite which occurs easily.
• Good footwear – this will keep you upright plus your feet warm and dry.

As we think winter for ourselves don’t forget a few things for the car too!

• First Aid Kit
• Tow Rope
• Shovel
• Extra blankets
• Dry, high energy snacks or a winter safety kit
• Winter tires
• Check your vehicle mechanically for good antifreeze and wiper blades too
• flashlight
• A well charged cell phone

All these items will make your travels much safer and provided added piece of mind to you and your family. If you should run into difficulty it is important to stay with your vehicle. Signal for help by tying a scarf or other piece of clothing to your outside vehicle mirror. Open your window just a bit for fresh air and be sure to keep your vehicle’s tail pipe free of ice and snow. While there might appear to be a house not too far off in the distance, stepping in deep snow, losing your balance, becoming injured or lost are real possibilities. Plan your trip let those on the receiving end know you are coming and when you plan to arrive.

Winter activities will send us and our children outdoors for such fun things like hockey or skating. It is too early to even try to skate on any lakes, ponds or dug outs. Please stay off the ice! We’ll need many more cold days and an ice thickness of at least 10 cm before we can start skating.

We’ve all witnessed the terrible storms of hurricane Sandy on the east coast. Winter storms can easily leave anyone of us stranded. Being prepared can easy the discomfort. While the big blackout this summer served as a lesson for us all, what would you do without heat? Winter has its challenges so be prepared. You can learn more at www.getprepared.ca.