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Make sure you are snow-safe

This tips were extracted from Ottawa Citizen .

Some safety tips for winter in Canada.

  • Snow Forts
    Police advise that people avoid building them altogether. Heavy snow often leads to a collapse, but, because these mountains of snow are so close to roadways, there is also a risk of being hit by plows and automobiles. Under supervision, children should stick to building shallow structures with open ceilings in backyards.

  • Tobogganing and sledding
    Select a hill with a gentle slope, far from roadways, with a lot of room for stopping. Only sled during daylight or in very well-lit areas. It is also important to wear a helmet, sit feet first with hands, legs and loose strings tucked in, and wear a neck warmer instead of a scarf. City officials also advise sledders to avoid building ramps and jumps and not to use difficult to control gear such as makeshift sleds made from garbage bags and cardboard boxes.

  • Vents
    Fire officials say snow-covered vents must be cleaned off to prevent a potentially fatal buildup of carbon monoxide inside homes. Snow also may cover the vents that bring in fresh air, and frozen natural gas meters may lead to an output of excess fuel.

  • Shovelling
    Always consider your health before tackling the buildup. Those with histories of heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or inactivity should consider hiring someone to assist. Otherwise, always warm up first, work at a slow pace, drink lots of water and wear appropriate clothing. Use salt to prevent slipping, and shovel small amounts of snow at a time.

  • Winter Walking
    Icy surfaces and piles of hard-packed snow pose hazards, especially when plows haven’t yet reached your street. Wear waterproof, non-slip boots with wide, low heels, and use canes or walkers if necessary. The Canada Safety Council advises people to take slow, short steps with their feet more than 30 centimetres apart to improve stability. It is also important to step down by placing your whole foot on the ice. It may also be useful to carry a small bag of salt, sand or clumping cat litter in your pocket to spread on icy surfaces.

  • Driving
    Police advise extreme caution, even when backing out of driveways. Ensure you have a clear view before backing out slowly. Have someone assist you if necessary. On the roads, drive slow and keep a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid sudden turns, braking, and accelerating, and use quality winter tires. Police also say it is important to remember to always clear snow off the entire car so the remains don’t blow onto vehicles following behind.