• ​​Winterize your home:
  • install storm shutters
  • clean the gutters
  • check your roof for damage
  • ensure proper insulation in the walls and attic
  • cover windows with plastic on the inside to keep in heat
  • use portable electric space heaters.
• Winterize your vehicle: have a qualified mechanic inspect and prepare your vehicle for winter conditions
  • snow tires
  • general maintenance of the battery
  • electronics
  • fluids
  • thermostat
  • lights
  • brakes
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with extra clothes, blankets and candles.
• Ensure that your vehicle’s gas tank is always at least half-full.
• Have your 72-hour emergency kit ready in case you need to evacuate or shelter-in-place. Be prepared for power outages.
• Stock up on cold and flu medication and consider receiving the flu shot.
• Service snow removal equipment and keep a supply of rock salt to melt ice on walkways.

• Make sure to find out about the coming weather conditions by checking your local forecast.
• Avoid or delay travel if extreme weather conditions are expected.
• If you have to drive, check current road conditions inside the city, and Alberta 511 for highway conditions.
• Make sure you have a well-stocked vehicle emergency kit and winter tires installed to ensure good tire traction.
• Plug in your vehicle for a few hours during extreme cold temperatures before you drive.
• Let someone know where you’re going, your route, and your expected arrival time.
• Clean snow and ice off your vehicle and ensure your headlights and windows are clear.
• Drive slowly and leave extra distance between your vehicle and other vehicles, including sanders, graders and other snow removal equipment.
• Ensure your windshield fluid it topped-up and replace any wiper blades that streak.

If you become stuck in your vehicle:

• Remain calm, stay inside and call for help.
• Occasionally run the engine to stay warm, but make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked with snow and beware of exhaust fumes.
• Allow fresh air in by opening the window slightly on the sheltered side away from the wind.

• Don’t venture out if extreme weather conditions are expected. If you must travel:
  • avoid remote areas
  • let someone know where you’re going, your route, and your expected arrival time
  • Consider using public transportation to avoid driving in less than ideal road conditions
• Make sure your heating system is in good working condition. Have a back- up heating system or supplies for a wood burning fireplace if you have one.
• If you are going out, ensure you are dressed for the weather and have layers to add or remove.
• If you must be outside, seek shelter and keep moving to maintain body heat.
• If you begin to experience symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia, seek medical attention or call 911.
• Check on family, friends and neighbours who may require additional support during a winter storm.
• Have a working carbon monoxide (CO) detector and be especially cautious if you are using space heaters indoors.
• Never use barbecues, camping heaters, gas or coal stoves or a generator indoors.
• If you or someone you see needs help and shelter, call 211 or the Human-centered Engagement Liaison Partnership (HELP) team at 403-998-7388. If they are in serious distress or non-responsive, call 911.

Keeping walkways free of ice and snow helps all community members move safely through neighbourhoods. Be a good neighbour - help shovel if you can.

• Clear the snow away from fire hydrants in your neighbourhood to make sure first responders can access them.
• Ensure your furnace and exhaust vents are free of snow and ice. Carbon monoxide can build up within your home if the vents are blocked.