What you need to know in an extreme cold snap
How to stay safe at home, on the road and outdoors
Extreme cold warnings are in effect across much of Saskatchewan, with temperatures expected to remain dangerously low through the weekend.
Experts say cold snaps increase the risk of fires, frozen pipes and vehicle breakdowns — and can also be dangerous for pets.
Here’s what to know to stay safe during the frigid temperatures.
Fire and carbon monoxide risks at home
The Saskatoon fire Department says extreme cold often leads to a spike in fires and carbon monoxide incidents, as furnaces and heating systems work harder.
Carbon monoxide is an odourless and potentially deadly gas created when fuels burn incompletely.
The fire department recommends these steps:
- Keep furnace intake and exhaust vents clear of snow and ice
- Check chimneys and rooflines for ice buildup
- Keep exits and windows accessible in case of emergency
- Test smoke alarms monthly and carbon monoxide detectors every three months
- Never use outdoor ovens, stoves, barbecues or fuel-burning heaters indoors
- Keep space heaters at least one metre from anything that can burn
Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion and drowsiness.
Road safety
Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) Saskatchewan says battery failure is the most common issue drivers face during extreme cold.
“The battery is your lifeline in the car,” said spokesperson Angel Blair. “It has the most important job to do when it comes to cold weather. It needs to work, so you need to maintain that battery health.”
CAA recommends plugging vehicles in when temperatures drop to -15 C or lower.
Drivers are encouraged to keep an emergency kit in their vehicle, including:
- Booster cables
- A shovel
- Blankets, mitts, a toque
- A phone charger
- Water
- Snacks and non-perishable food
If a vehicle breaks down, stay inside it, Blair said.
“Your vehicle acts like a temporary shelter."
CAA also advises drivers to check road conditions before heading out, to slow down and reconsider travel if conditions worsen.
Plumbing and heating systems
Andrew Strauss, owner and operator of Prime Mechanical Ltd. in Prince Albert, said the biggest risk to homes during extreme cold is frozen water and drain lines.
He recommends ensuring furnaces are working properly and that high-efficiency furnace vents — which often exit through side walls — remain free of ice and debris.
“It just comes down to maintenance,” Strauss said. “Have somebody qualified come in and inspect your heating system, make sure it’s operating correctly and then perform any needed service.”
Strauss further urges homeowners to:
- Replace furnace filters
- Book annual furnace inspections, ideally in the fall
- Install carbon monoxide detectors near furnaces and living areas
Health risks
Cold temperatures also pose serious health risks.
Crista Boehm, director of prevention at the Workers’ Compensation Board of Saskatchewan, said frostbite and hypothermia can occur quickly during extreme cold — especially with prolonged exposure.
Fingers, toes, ears and the face are usually affected first.
Early warning signs include:
- Shivering
- Numbness
- Cold or pale skin
Boehm recommends dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, wearing insulated footwear and taking regular warm-up breaks.
“When possible, eliminating exposure to extreme cold is always the best option,” she said.
Pet safety
The Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) says extreme cold warnings apply to animals too.
“When there is an extreme cold warning, it is too cold for most animals to be outside,” said outreach coordinator Jemma Omidian.
She recommends limiting outdoor time to quick bathroom breaks — around five minutes — and bringing outdoor cats inside during cold snaps.
Pets are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia, which can be life-threatening.
Warning signs in animals include:
- Shivering
- Lethargy
- Pale gums
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Stiff muscles or disorientation
Pet owners are encouraged to use winter coats and booties if animals tolerate them, wipe ice and salt off paws after outings and seek veterinary care after prolonged exposure.
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