What to do in case of extreme cold

Last updated June 26, 2025
Reading time: 2 min

During periods of extreme cold it’s important to take special steps to protect yourself. Find out what you can do to make it through a cold snap.

What’s a period of extreme cold?

In the winter, extreme cold is when temperatures fall significantly below the seasonal norm. Cold can also be made worse by the wind (wind chill). Extreme cold generally means higher health risks.

Health risks

  • Windburn (dry, red, sore skin)
  • Frostbite: Can occur in 5-10 minutes, depending on temperature and wind conditions.
  • Irritation of throat and lungs
  • Exacerbation of respiratory illnesses (asthma, chronic bronchitis) or cardiovascular diseases (angina pectoris).
  • Hypothermia

Special care is recommended for people vulnerable to the effects of extreme cold, including young children, the elderly, people with mental health problems and the unhoused.

Safety risks

  • Frozen pipes
  • Power failure
  • Car won’t start
  • Fire, or carbon monoxide poisoning (improper use of back-up heating: portable heaters, space heaters)

Tips to avoid frozen pipes

What you can do at home

When there is a weather alert about extreme cold, we recommend that you only go out when you really need to and follow these safety guidelines.

  • Stay indoors and don’t go out unless absolutely necessary.
  • Keep your 72-hour emergency kit handy.
  • Check to make sure your heating systems, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
  • Keep a close eye on back-up heating equipment.
  • Avoid indoor use of fuel-burning appliances (gasoline, propane, coal, etc.) such as grills and camping equipment.
  • Don’t overuse heating equipment and be sure to lower the thermostat in rooms you are not using.
  • When using portable heaters or space heaters, don’t overload the electrical circuits.
  • Don’t drape wet clothing on baseboard heaters.
  • Turn on your taps and run a trickle of cold water to keep your pipes from freezing.
  • If the power goes out, follow these instructions.

How to deal with extreme cold when you’re outside

If you absolutely must go out:

  • Dress warmly and watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia
  • Move your hands and feet to keep your blood circulating
  • Keep your back to the wind as much as possible

If you must drive: 

  • Make sure you have an emergency kit in your car
  • Avoid long trips
  • Let family or friends know your route and when you expect to arrive

Stay informed and in contact with family and friends

  • Check our social media and Web sites to monitor the situation in real-time.
  • Stay in touch with family and friends and find out how others around you are doing, especially anyone who is more at risk (such as an elderly neighbour).

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