The City of Lethbridge has provided tips on how to stay safe during a cold snap. (Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

City of Lethbridge providing tips to stay warm during cold snap

Jan 10, 2024 | 4:13 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The temperature in Lethbridge and the surrounding area has dropped significantly and is set to keep dropping throughout the week, and the City of Lethbridge has tips for residents to keep warm.

Officials with the City provided the following tips and guidelines:

• Stay indoors when possible and dress for the weather if outside;
• Stay safe by dressing in warm insulating layers closer to the body, covering with wind and waterproof layers on the outside;
• If travelling by car, know your route ahead of time and make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle with a fully charged cell phone;
• If working outside, do not over-exert yourself. Sweating can lead to hypothermia;
• Make sure your pets have warm shelter during a cold snap.

Deputy Fire Chief, Communications & Strategy Kevin McKeown said that frostbite can occur within minutes, so it is especially important to make sure you are protected.

He elaborated, “We’re looking at 10 minutes or less on exposed skin. Its very important that you are layering up. That is the greatest risk is having any of that exposed skin and increasing your risk of frostbite.”

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With the temperature predicted to go down to minus 39 on Friday evening, the City of Lethbridge has an Extreme Weather Response Protocol which can be activated and implemented when needed. The protocol provides resources around the city for people to get warm during the cold snap, and updates will be put to social media.

In addition to adding extra layers and staying out of the cold, McKeown said to make sure to watch which fluids you are consuming.

He explained, “Have some warm beverages like hot chocolate and tea, whatever you’re into, but do keep in mind to limit caffeine. With the cold weather, caffeine can actually increase your risk of dehydration.”

The City is also reminding residents that lake ice is still unsafe after an unseasonably warm November and December, and the lakes need more time to freeze over to the point they can be skated on.

Information about how the City responds during extreme weather can be found here.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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