Staying safe
this winter

Winter storms and cold temperatures can be dangerous. Stay safe and healthy by planning ahead. Prepare your home and check on older adults.

If you are prepared for the hazards of winter, you are more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

With more of us staying inside it's no guarantee of safety. Take these steps to keep your home safe and warm during the winter months.

• Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls
• Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks

Check your heating systems

• Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside
• Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys
• If you do not have a working smoke detector, install one. Test batteries monthly and replace them twice a year
• Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available
• Prevent carbon monoxide emergencies
• Install a carbon monoxide detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odourless, colourless gas. Check batteries when you change your clocks in the fall and spring
• Learn symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion

Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but you can take these steps to prepare for them:

• Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: wear a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; gloves; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots
• Sprinkle salt or sand on icy patches
• Carry a mobile phone