Safety tips for the winter

Winter storms can bring some serious risks, like car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and even heart attacks from overexertion. But don’t let the chilly weather hold you back. With the right precautions, you can fully embrace the beauty of a Canadian winter. Here are some simple cold-weather safety tips to help you stay safe and make the most of the winter season:

1. Prepping your car for winter

Is your car ready to tackle winter roads? If not, it’s time to winterize your car! Here are some simple tips to help you prepare for safe winter driving:

• Swap your all-seasons with snow tires or winter tires as all-seasons start to lose grip once the temperature drops below 7'C.
• Use a winter-grade windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear.
• Pack an emergency car kit and include essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, blankets, a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable phone charger, and emergency flares.
• Get an oil change and consider using a lower-viscosity oil to help prevent thickening in cold temperatures.
• Never let your gas tank drop below half full to prevent ice from forming in the tank or fuel lines.

With a little prep, you’ll be ready to hit the road safely, no matter what winter throws your way!

2. Driving safely

Winter storms can bring some serious challenges—extreme cold, heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet, ice, and high winds. These conditions not only make driving more dangerous but also increase the risk of accidents or even getting stuck in your car. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and sudden weather changes can catch anyone off guard.

That’s why it’s so important to be prepared before hitting the road. Make sure your car is winter-ready, check the weather reports, and always let someone know your route and ETA. Having an emergency kit in your car is also a must—it could make all the difference if you get stranded. Here are some tips for safe driving in the winter:

• Check the weather report for any winter weather advisory so you can plan ahead—if there's a winter storm warning, you may want to reconsider your trip
• Be alert and well-rested before getting behind the wheel.
• Always wear your seatbelt—it’s a lifesaver.
• If visibility is poor, turn on your headlights so others can see you.
• Poor visibility and winter roads demand your full attention, so stay vigilant.
• Match your driving speed to the road and weather conditions.
• Don’t pass other vehicles in bad weather—changing lanes can be tricky with snow or slush.
• If driving feels too dangerous, find a safe place to pull over and wait it out.
• Leave extra room between your car and the one ahead of you.
• If you hit a patch of ice, don’t slam the brakes or jerk the steering wheel.
• If you’ve had alcohol or cannabis, don’t drive—wait until you’re completely sober or find another way home.
• Keep your phone fully charged and carry a charging cable in your car in case you need to call for help.

3. Dressing for the weather

Did you know Canada is home to some of the coldest winters in the world? It’s a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, but those icy temperatures, snow, and ice can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. Spending too much time outdoors in the cold can put you at risk for serious issues like frostbite or hypothermia, which can lead to lasting health problems.

So, if you plan to go outside in Canada's cold temperatures, make sure you dress the part. Choose warm clothing with good insulation to keep the cold out, and don’t forget to layer up underneath—it’s the key to staying warm and cozy. Here are some more tips:

Keep your body heat in

Cover your head and upper body with a hat and layers made of wool or synthetic fabrics.

Protect exposed skin

Cover areas like your ears, nose, cheeks, and fingers to prevent frostbite.

Hydrate with warm drinks

Sip on warm liquids to stay hydrated and keep your body warm.

Fuel up

Eat high-calorie foods and drinks to give your body the energy it needs to stay warm.

Avoid tight fits

Make sure your clothes and shoes aren’t too tight, as they can reduce circulation.

Pack extra clothing

Always carry extra clothing in case you need more warmth or get wet. If your clothes get wet, change into dry ones as soon as possible. Damp clothing can quickly drop your body temperature.

Staying on top of the weather forecast is a good habit, especially in winter. For example, in Atlantic Canada, where the winters can be a mix of cold and wet, heading outside without the right gear can turn a fun day into a miserable one. Dressing for the forecast not only keeps you warm and cozy but also makes outdoor activities way more enjoyable. A little planning ahead goes a long way.

4. Shoveling snow

Snow can be magical, but let’s face it—someone has to shovel the driveway and walkway. Not only is it unsafe for you and your family, but an unshovelled walkway is a slip-and-fall liability claim waiting to happen.

Unfortunately, snow shovelling isn’t all fun and games; the combination of intense activity and freezing temperatures can put a lot of strain on your heart, especially if you’ve been less active leading up to winter.

For many people, snow removal isn’t an issue, but for some, it can increase the risk of a heart attack. Think about it—suddenly moving hundreds of pounds of snow after months of being sedentary can be a shock to your system. Even pushing a snowblower can lead to injuries if you’re not careful.

Then there’s the cold itself. Freezing temperatures can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, make your blood clot more easily, and constrict your arteries, reducing blood flow—even in healthy individuals. Plus, shovelling with poor technique can do a number on your back, hips, and knees. And don’t forget—slippery driveways and walkways can send you straight to the emergency room, too. Next time you head out to tackle a snowfall, keep these snow shovelling safety tips in mind:

• Don’t shovel right after eating or while smoking.
• Take it slow and stretch before you begin.
• Push the snow rather than lifting it.
• If you need to lift, scoop smaller amounts of snow, even if it means taking a little longer.
• Brace your core and lift with your legs, not your back.
• Take a break if you feel tired.
• Keep salt or sand handy for slippery steps and paths.
• Wear boots or shoes with good traction to keep your footing secure.
• Know the symptoms of a heart attack, and if you feel any, stop immediately and call 911.

With a little care and the right prep, you can stay safe while clearing that snow.

5. Reviewing your car and home insurance

As we mentioned earlier, winter storms bring with them some serious risks, including things like car accidents and home damage. That’s why it’s smart to review your insurance policies and ensure you’re fully protected. Here's what you need to do:

Car insurance

Between heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet, ice, and high winds, winter storms can make driving a real challenge. Slippery roads, poor visibility, and sudden changes in weather can catch even the most experienced drivers off guard and lead to unexpected car accidents. That's why it's important to make sure you have the right car insurance coverage.

If you’re involved in a car accident, your liability insurance policy could save you from paying out of pocket to a third party for damages, medical bills, or legal fees if you’re found at fault. Collision coverage is an optional coverage that should strongly be considered for winter driving. It'll cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if you find yourself skidding across black ice and colliding with another vehicle or stationary object, like a tree.

Home insurance

If someone gets hurt on an unshovelled walkway, your home insurance policy could save you from paying out of pocket for things like legal fees if they decide to sue. Your personal liability portion is designed to help compensate someone if they get injured on your property. Liability claims can get expensive fast, so it’s a good idea to check your coverage and make sure it’s enough to handle potential costs.

Winter also brings even more challenges, like water damage from ice dams, burst pipes from freezing temperatures, or even fire damage from a malfunctioning furnace or fireplace. That’s why it’s smart to review your home insurance policy and ensure you’re fully protected. Without the right coverage, you’d be responsible for paying all those damages yourself.

Learn more today with BrokerLink

To learn even more winter safety tips, reach out to BrokerLink. Our BrokerLink insurance advisors are ready to answer any questions you may have. We'll even help you review your car and home insurance policies to make sure you're fully protected no matter what the winter season throws your way.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Canada. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

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