With two cold weather-related deaths recorded in the Cariboo Chilcotin region during the last extreme cold weather snap, the BC Coroners Service has several cold weather safety tips to keep residents safe.
Hypothermia can be a killer for anyone, but the elderly, frail and mobility-challenged may be particularly at-risk if in circumstances where their core body temperature dips. The BC Coroners Service reminds everyone that this can happen even in a residence or other building if the outdoor temperature is cold enough and the heating system for the building fails for some reason.
Especially in more rural and remote areas, neighbours are urged to watch out for each other and ensure everyone has shelter, warmth, water and food during the cold snap.
“If you know your neighbours are elderly, take the time to give them a call or drop by, just to make sure they are coping,” said Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe last month.
Precautions should also be taken when outdoors with the wind chill factor, which combines the effects of temperature and wind, taken into account. Getting wet is also a factor which greatly increases the risk for hypothermia, as is impairment with alcohol.
Another heightened risk in cold weather is fire or carbon-monoxide poisoning, especially if people turn to makeshift arrangements to try to maintain warmth in their homes.
If you are in a cool or cold building, wear extra clothes, such as longjohns made for winter weather. Wear socks and slippers, and an extra sweater. A cap or hat helps prevent loss of body heat.
If your home is heated by a wood stove, ensure you have plenty of wood available before a forecast snowstorm or prolonged cold spell.
If you are using a space heater for extra warmth, place it on a hard, level surface and keep anything flammable at least three feet away.
Never use a stove or oven to heat your home, and never operate a generator inside a home.
