Winter weather · 8 min read
Extreme cold and winter storm preparedness
Prepare your home, prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and recognise hypothermia and frostbite.
PrepKit · Updated on
Prepare before temperatures fall
Monitor local warnings, check heating and detectors, and gather dry layers, blankets, food, water, medicine and independent lighting. Arrange check-ins for older adults and people who live alone.
Stay warm without creating another hazard
Concentrate activity in fewer rooms and wear several dry layers. Never heat a home with an oven, grill or camp stove, and operate generators outdoors well away from doors and windows.
Recognise cold illness
Heavy shivering, clumsiness, confusion, slurred speech or drowsiness require action. Move the person to shelter, remove wet clothing and warm them gradually. Do not rub frostbitten skin or apply direct heat; contact emergency services for serious symptoms.
Keep preparing