Foresight can make the difference between life and death when it comes to weather conditions

By: Khadija Nadeem
Miracle’s Editorial Board Member
Every aspect of Canadians’ lives are affected by the coming and going season of winter and here in the Lower Mainland, we’re famous for the amount of snow we get.
But as winters get harsher and colder, it’s important to take proper precautions to keep us all safe. Some preparation in advance can go a long way to help you stay safe during wintry conditions.
Wearing winter gear is always recommended. Dressing in your layers will keep you warm and protected from wind, water, and snow forecasts and to avoid frostbite, cover exposed skin as much as possible. This means to wear outerwear such as hats, scarves, and gloves on top of regular clothing such as sweaters, hoodies, and jackets.
With stormy weather, power outages are always a possibility so it’s important to be prepared for up to a week without power by developing an emergency plan and emergency kit for home. Salt and shovel your driveways and sidewalks to avoid slipping and have your phones charged, flashlights at hand, and maybe even candles. This season, the government is also making sure to provide additional emergency shelter spaces for those experiencing homelessness or looking for safe, warm places to go.
Try to stay at home if the weather is bad but if absolutely necessary, always make sure to check the forecast before heading out and ensure that your vehicles have a full tank of fuel, some sort of snow clearing tool, food and water, a first aid kit, and other emergency supplies. The public has also been advised that if stuck or stranded, to stay within their vehicle until roadside assistance can reach them. Without taking more than you need, stock up on necessary items in case of a larger snow storm of some sort. Food, grocery items, daily use materials, and gasoline are good to have stored in case it’s harder to get out when you need them.
In contrast, unpreparedness in Pakistan has lead to 92 total deaths so far. Heavy snowfall, avalanches, and freezing temperatures have caused devastation across usually warm regions. In the hilltop town of Murree, 22 deaths and up to 1000 vehicles were stranded as people rushed to view the snowfall. Roads hadn’t been cleared and citizens weren’t wearing the proper clothing recommended for the weather.
Unfortunately, foresight can make the difference
between life and death when it comes to weather conditions as dangerous as the ones that reach us. That’s why it’s very important to stay up to date with forecasts and safety precautions.
Laysa Lil Insana illa ma’ sa’aa
That man can have nothing but what he strives for.