Winter Emergency Preparedness: Staying Safe with Ottawa Public Health
by Justin Okpala
Wednesday 18 December 2024
Winter in Canada is undeniably beautiful, offering countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and live out those magical movie moments where everything seems truly wonderful. However, when I first arrived in Canada from Nigeria. I quickly realized that the reality of winter went far beyond what I had seen in films.
Experiencing the biting cold, navigating through heavy snowfalls, and dealing with power outages was eye-opening. These challenges were far from the idyllic scenes I had imagined, yet they became an integral part of my winter journey. Over the years, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for how critical it is to protect each other’s health and safety during the winter, and to support newcomers who arrive in Canada.
As one of the coldest national capitals in the world, winter here can be unpredictable. As the temperature drops and snow begins to fall, consider how you can keep your household safe.
Tips on How to Prepare for Emergencies Such as a Power Outage
- Make a plan and write down the numbers for your emergency contacts.
- Check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially older adults or those with disabilities who may need extra support.
- Anticipate what to do if the power goes out. Know where to go to warm up, and how to get there.
- Create an emergency kit with non-perishable food, water, warm blankets, extra clothes, a flashlight, batteries, and a radio to stay informed. It’s also wise to keep medications, important documents, and hygiene products in your kit.
- During power outages, never use a fuel-powered generator, heater, or barbecue indoors. These appliances produce carbon monoxide, which can cause permanent harm or even death.
Did you know that the City of Ottawa has a Heat By-law for rental housing? This law requires landlords who pay for heating to keep the temperature in your home at least at 16.67°C at night and at least at 20°C during the day. For more information contact 3-1-1.
Many resources are available to you in Ottawa. Knowing where to get information and who to call for assistance will help you get prepared. To learn more about:
- Places to warm up in Ottawa and cold weather tips and assistance, visit the Ottawa Public Health webpage.
- Mental health support during challenging winter times, visit the Mental Health webpage.
Taking these steps will help you enjoy the winter and keep your and those around you safe. A little preparation goes a long way!
Justin Okpala is a Program Assistant with Ottawa Public Health | Santé publique Ottawa