Good morning! Welcome to the coldest regions of the United States and Canada, where winter can be challenging; however, with proper care, you can make the most of this unique season. In addition to enjoying sports like skiing and snowboarding, take the opportunity to create a beautiful snowman and make your winter even more special. Don’t miss the chance to explore all the possibilities that winter has to offer!
Winter gradually set in across the United States and Canada from October to December, bringing sub-zero temperatures. Significant snowfall typically occurs from December onwards. Snow removal from sidewalks and driveways is a municipal obligation or condominium rule to ensure safety. In lower temperatures, the snow is light, but if warmed, it melts slightly, becoming denser and heavier when cleared. The most rigorous period of winter spans from December to March, with more frequent snow cleaning and shorter daylight hours, darkening around 5 or 6 in the evening, depending on the region.
Before heading out for any outdoor activity, it’s always best to check the weather statistics, including both the “Actual Temperature” and the “Wind Chill.” This will help you dress stylishly and comfortably, and decide if you need to bring an extra coat or an umbrella. Don’t be caught off guard by the weather; prepare adequately.
Tips for Dealing with Cold and Snow:
For those planning to live in the United States or Canada, or for newcomers, here are some suggestions for effectively dealing with the cold and snow. With basic care, such as wearing thermal clothing, staying well-fed, and engaging in winter sports, you can fully enjoy the beauty and unique experiences that these countries offer during the coldest season of the year. Additionally, getting to know local traditions and participating in typical winter festivities can further enrich your experience.
Appropriate Clothing:
- Layers are essential: Dress in layers to retain heat. Start with thermal clothing, add insulating layers, and finish with a windproof and waterproof coat.
- Accessories: Don’t forget to wear hats, gloves, scarves, and warm socks. Adequate protection for extremities is essential to prevent freezing.
- Waterproof boots: Invest in waterproof and slip-resistant boots to keep your feet dry and secure when walking on snow.
Care for Dogs:
- Dog Coats: For short-haired breeds, consider using coats to keep dogs warm during longer walks.
- Protected Paws: Use dog boots or protective balm to prevent dogs’ paws from drying out due to snow and salt on the streets.
- Limit Outdoor Time: On extremely cold days, avoid extended periods outdoors, especially for dogs more sensitive to the cold.
Public Transportation Care:
- Check Schedules: Be aware of public transportation schedules, as delays or changes may occur on snowy days.
- Proper Heating: Ensure you dress appropriately even before entering the transport. Stations and vehicles can be cold.
- Appropriate Footwear: Use non-slip shoes to prevent slips when entering and exiting vehicles or stations.
- Facial Protection: Consider using masks or scarves to protect your face from the cold wind while waiting or traveling.
Car Care:
- Winter Tires: Consider switching to winter tires for better grip on snow and ice. Winter tires provide superior traction on snow and ice-covered roads, significantly improving safety in adverse weather conditions. While not mandatory in the United States, it is highly recommended to invest in winter tires to significantly enhance safety in challenging conditions.
- Appropriate Fluids: Ensure all car fluids are suitable for below-zero temperatures.
- Car Emergency Kit: Thermal Blanket: To stay warm in emergencies.
First Aid Kit: Essential items for basic care.
Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Fundamental for low visibility situations.
Non-Perishable Food and Water: Have basic supplies to ensure hydration and nutrition in unforeseen circumstances.
Snow Shovel and Sand: For situations where the car may get stuck in the snow and to clear snow from the windshield and windows before driving.
- Regular Maintenance: Perform regular checks on your vehicle to ensure it is ready to face winter.
Winterization and Home Care:
Before the winter season begins, plan to have a winterization process in your home. This involves draining water from pipes to prevent freezing. Additionally, most homes have heaters or fireplaces to help keep the environment warm on colder days. However, it is essential to follow all safety guidelines when using fireplaces, such as keeping the surrounding area clean and using a protective screen to prevent accidents. Therefore, make sure to prepare your home adequately for winter and ensure a safe and comfortable environment during the colder months.
At home, keep the rooms well-heated and use a humidifier to prevent the air from becoming excessively dry. Regularly check heating and ventilation facilities to ensure they are functioning correctly, and changing filters as per the manufacturer’s recommendation allows for better air quality in the house.
The best time to apply salt on the sidewalk or driveway during winter in the United States is before or immediately after the snow starts falling. Salt helps melt the snow and ice, preventing the formation of thick and slippery layers. Applying salt in advance helps avoid excessive ice accumulation, making later removal easier.
Additional reminders
In addition to these guidelines, caution is advised when driving in “blue ice” conditions, a thin, transparent layer of ice that can be quite slippery and dangerous. Therefore, it is essential to always monitor road conditions before traveling and, if possible, avoid traveling in areas susceptible to this type of ice. Additionally, it is advisable to use weather forecasting apps for safer planning.
During Winter in United States and Canada, or anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere, due to low levels of ultraviolet rays, obtaining sufficient vitamin D can be challenging, essential for bone and muscle health. Therefore, to ensure your health, Health Canada recommends seeking foods rich in vitamin D or considering daily supplementation.
It’s important to remember to stay hydrated, even in winter, as dry air and exposure to the cold can cause dehydration. It is fundamental to drink plenty of water throughout the day. To protect your skin from cold-related damage, use sunscreen, even on cloudy days, and regularly moisturize your skin to prevent dryness and cracking.
Finally, always be attentive to local weather conditions and take additional safety measures, such as avoiding non-essential travel on snowy or icy storm days. Remember, the key to surviving winter in colder regions is being prepared. Adopt these precautions and make the most of the snowy season!