Residents urged to stay safe during extreme cold

By Rob Vogt
The Claresholm RCMP is reminding residents to take extra precautions during periods of extreme cold, with temperatures dropping sharply across Alberta.
Harsh winter conditions can pose significant risks to health, safety, and property if proper steps aren’t taken.
To help residents prepare, the Claresholm RCMP is sharing the following cold-weather safety tips:
• Dress for the conditions. Wear multiple layers, including insulated outerwear to protect exposed skin from frostbite.
• Frostbite can occur in minutes during extreme cold. Take regular breaks indoors to warm up.
• Reach out to seniors, neighbours living alone, and anyone who may need assistance during severe weather.
• Plug in your vehicle if temperatures drop below –15°C, keep your fuel tank at least half full, and pack an emergency kit with blankets, a shovel, warm clothing, and non-perishable food.
• Avoid leaving your vehicle running unattended with keys in ignition. While warming up your car is tempting, doing so increases the risk of vehicle theft.
• Extreme cold often brings icy conditions. Drive slowly, maintain extra distance, and give yourself additional time to reach your destination.
• Prevent frozen pipes. Keep your home heated, open cabinet doors to allow warm air around plumbing, and consider letting a small stream of water run if temperatures drop extremely low.
• Use space heaters safely. Keep heaters away from flammable materials and never leave them running unattended.
• Know the signs of cold-related illness. Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and numbness may indicate hypothermia or frostbite. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.
For more winter safety information, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.