The Kingsville Fire Department reminds residents that severe winter weather and cold climates can pose hazards to our health and safety.  It can impact transportation routes and critical infrastructure, and cause injuries such as slips and falls, as well as medical conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia.  Being prepared and monitoring the weather can help to ensure your safety throughout the winter months.

Preparing for severe winter weather includes having a plan for your home and making sure your vehicle is ready for harsh winter driving conditions.  Here’s what you can do now to be prepared in an emergency, and drive safely in winter weather.

Stay Alert

Monitoring weather conditions, forecasts, and alerts can help you make informed decisions about leaving your home and travelling.

Check local conditions and weather alerts, and learn about colour-coded alerts that the Province uses to help keep you and your family safe. Before you travel, check Ontario 511 for road condition information on provincial roadways.

Warnings

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) monitors temperatures in our area and issues Cold Warnings or Extreme Cold Warnings when specific criteria are met.  Warnings are posted on the Windsor Essex County Health Unit’s website, or Facebook.  When a cold warning is issued, you should take extra precautions to protect yourself and loved ones from cold-related health risks.  Discover their Stay Warm Essex program and learn how to Beat the Chill with tips to reduce your risk and protect yourself from cold-related injuries.

Visit Kingsville Emergency Planning page for more helpful information about other ways you can protect yourself and your family in an emergency.