Preparing for the Colder Months

BRRR… winter is here, and it’s getting cold! To survive the chilly Canadian months, it’s crucial to have the right gear and be prepared for the elements. Here’s a guide to staying cozy, safe, and warm this winter.

Winter Gear 101

• Dress in Layers: Always wear layers like a shirt, sweater, and winter coat to protect yourself from the biting wind. The wind chills can be more dangerous than the snow or ice!
• The temperature could say –5 C but feel –20C!
• Winter Accessories: Keep toques/beanies, ear muffs, scarves, gloves, and sturdy winter boots handy to shield you from the cold.
• Avoid Cotton: Cotton holds moisture and can make you colder. Opt for materials like wool or synthetic fibers that trap warmth better.
• Hand and Foot Warmers: These small heat packs can make a big difference in extreme cold, providing extra warmth when you need it most.

Transportation and Driving Safety

• Winter Tires: If you drive, invest in winter tires to reduce the risk of slipping on icy roads.
• Emergency Car Kit: Keep essentials like jumper cables, a first-aid kit, flashlight, and blankets in your car for emergencies.
• Public Transportation Etiquette: Be kind to others when waiting for buses or trains — everyone’s trying to stay warm, so look out for each other.

Health and Safety Tips

• Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to forget, but hydration is key, even in winter.
• Prevent Frostbite: Dress warmly and cover exposed skin to protect yourself from frostbite.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): The reduced daylight in winter can affect mood, so consider investing in a sun lamp to combat SAD.
• Stay Social: Connecting with friends, attending college events, or using the Peer Support Program can keep spirits high. Try ice skating or sledding with friends for some winter fun!

Emergency Preparedness

• Stay Aware: Always check weather reports before heading out. If conditions are too severe, let your professor or boss know you can’t make it safely.
• Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 911.
• Learn more here to prepare for the First Winter: Welcome to Canadian winter: dressing for winter conditions – Canadian Red Cross
• Learn more about the Importance of Layers: How To Dress in Cold Weather | REI Expert Advice

ACSA Staff’s Cozy Winter Tips

April’s Warm Winter Wisdom: After my first Canadian winter, I fell in love with the cozy life. My go-to comforts are peppermint tea with honey and lemon, cuddling with my dog under a heated blanket, and making chili!

Ginnut’s Cozy Comfort Hacks: Ginger tea with honey is my favorite, especially while watching the snow fall. I also love curling up with a good book or heading to T-Bird’s for a bowling night.

Karley’s Toasty Tips: Mint tea with honey or hot cocoa is my winter staple. I also brave the cold for sledding and ice skating!

Alyshia’s Snow Day Strategies: My favorite thing to do on a snow day is curl up on the couch to watch my favorite NHL hockey team, read a good book, enjoy a cup of coffee, or dive into a coloring book.

Written by: April Conkright, Program Coordinator at the ACSA.