With dangerous cold weather coming this week, it is important everyone take greater responsibility for their own safety and to check on vulnerable neighbours who might need a hand.
With temperatures expected to plunge to -30 C this weekend, it is especially important when leaving the house to bundle up warmly and cover all vulnerable skin if staying more than a few minutes outside. Frostbite is a very real risk even after just five minutes exposed to the outside elements in such bitter cold. A scarf is a small inconvenience, but it could save you temporary or even permanent disfigurement and pain.
It is also important not to take your safety for granted by jumping into your car with less than adequate clothing and expect it to be alright. Being prepared is important, and taking extra clothing, snow gear and emergency supplies when driving, particularly longer distances, is simply common sense in these types of killer cold snaps.
During these types of deep cold weather events, it is also very important to think about elderly neighbours or those in your neighbourhood you know to be vulnerable. Doing daily wellness checks can help a lot, and helping to clear extra snow from steps or sidewalks for those who struggle themselves becomes even more heightened when combined with -30 C weather.
As a community, we also have a collective responsibility to provide open access to public spaces where those who are not getting enough warmth can come, have a hot drink, and sit for a few hours to warm up. This can literally mean the difference between life and death in some cases. We would encourage the municipality to suspend all public transit fares during this time of intense cold so anyone who needs to find these public warming spaces can do so without the stress of looking for a ride.
During these times, it is always good to donate extra winter clothing or blankets to local service organizations who can distribute them where needed.
Our community is a caring one, and we know everyone will do their best to help out as best they can as we endure the days of cold to come.
