Winter storms can happen quickly and last for multiple days. Winter storms include major snowfall, blizzards, blowing snow, freezing rain, ice storms, wind chill and extreme cold temperatures. These storms have the potential to cause traffic incidents, power outages, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks from overexertion.  

• Prepare your vehicle for winter weather 
• Make an action plan
• Be prepared for power outages 
• Follow weather updates

• Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Reduce the risk of a heart attack by avoiding over overexertion when shoveling snow and walking in the snow.
• If you have to drive, follow road updates on Alberta 511.
• Ensure you have extra supplies in your vehicle or your backpack if you get delayed or stopped.
• Clean snow and ice off your vehicle and in front of your home.
• Avoid going outside if possible.

• Keep walkways free of ice and snow to ensure safety of neighbours.
• Clear snow away from furnace and exhaust vents.
• Check on your neighbours.

• Become a snow angel
• 511

• ​​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.