Fall brings colour and caution: how to get ready for colder weather

Fall weather brings a lot of uncertainty – weather can rapidly change from warm to cold to warm again: sometimes thermostats are on, other times windows are open; sun is out and shining, other times grey skies and rain clouds hide all hint of sun.
 
But we can be certain that fall weather means increasingly colder temperatures, especially at night, and accompanying freezing rain, overnight freezes, storms are on the horizon.
 

Be Ready

 
In that way, we can prepare! Knowing what weather risks are coming our way is the first step in preparing for the transition into fall. Here’s how to get ready:
 

1. When it comes to common types of weather hazards or disasters, know the risks in your community. If you’re unsure, call your local municipality to find out what types of hazards can occur in your area.
2. Once you’re aware of risks, make a plan to keep you and loved ones safe in case of emergency.
3. Ensure part of that plan is to have an emergency kit to get you and loved ones through three days on your own, if necessary. You can buy one or build your own.
4. Be prepared for the ever-common power outages – either as a result of weather, grid overload due to heaters, or other variables.

 
 
With the changing temperatures and weather of the fall, it’s important to be ready for fall storms and tornadoes. When the weather moves towards winter and starts bringing freezing rain and overnight freezes, we can prepare ourselves, and our cars, so we’re ready to handle it when it does arrive – and it will.
 

Get ready for freezing weather

 
Be prepared for harsher weather by listening to local weather forecasts and dress accordingly. Ice can form on sidewalks, driveways and roads without notice as it gets colder.
 
Here are some tips when for when it gets chilly:

• Check your local weather conditions before heading out; prepare to dress accordingly and drive according to weather and road conditions.
• Prepare your car for winter weather and slippery conditions.
• If you happen to run into fog while driving, leave extra space between you and the car in front of you, keep your lights on low beam mode and follow the right sideline of the road to guide you. Whether you’re driving in fog, hail, ice, or rain, if you can’t see, always pull over and wait until conditions clear to continue driving.
• Have a car emergency kit so you can be ready for any emergency you may encounter on the road. Not sure what that would entail? Learn how to make an emergency kit for your car.

 
 

Don’t skip mental health

 
In taking care of all aspects of your health come this time of year, fall weather can bring bouts of seasonal depression to many Canadians; here are 5 tips to help combat that.
 

1. Eat healthy. It’s tough to be on top of your game if you aren’t giving your body nutrients that can provide the most energy and vitamins.
2. Get moving. Physical activity releases endorphins and activates neurotransmitters that are associated with feelings of wellbeing and pleasure. Additionally, outdoor activities oxygenate your body and get you out in the sunshine.
3. Go outdoors often and dress warmly. Take advantage of sunny days to venture outside.
4. Soak up some sun… inside your home! Let sunshine in as often as possible (open the curtains wide) and sit near a window.
5. Talk to a health professional if you think you have seasonal depression or are affected by the lack of light. They can present the various solutions that are available to you.

 

First aid tips at your fingertips

Be prepared for any emergency with our First Aid app for useful information at the ready – download for free so you always have useful tips and resources at your fingertips.
 
 
Related stories:

• How Canadians benefitted from taking psychological first aid course
• How to make an emergency kit for your car
• Be ready for fall storms and tornadoes