The southeast continue to be mired in a cold snap, with temperatures dropping as low as -39° without the wind, and feeling even colder than that when factoring in the windchill. While many may want to stay indoors as much as possible, for those who do need to venture outdoors dressing properly is recommended.
The most common advice people receive is to dress in layers. So, just what is it exactly to dress in layers? We asked Amanda Wood, the Community Relations Coordinator with the Saskatchewan Safety Council. She provided some essential tips on how to dress appropriately to face the cold.
When venturing outdoors in frigid temperatures, layering is the most effective way to maintain warmth. However, choosing the right fabrics for each layer is crucial.
"The importance with this weather is to dress in layers, but it's important to know what the layers should be," said Wood. "There are certain types of fabric that when you sweat, for example, sticks to the skin. We do recommend like a wool fabric, like tweed or flannel especially if you're putting that directly on your skin, that will be a really good insulator."
She explained that wool traps air in tiny pockets, providing insulation and preventing moisture from freezing against the skin. This should be followed by an insulating layer, such as a warm jacket, and an outer layer that protects against wind and moisture.
"Then the next layer is going to be your jackets, so making sure that your next layer is going to insulate you, keep you nice and warm. And then, of course, ski pants on top of that if you can. Ski pants are always great because it'll keep your core warm and your pants warm as well."
While layering is essential, Wood warned against overdoing it. Too many layers can cause overheating, leading to sweating, which then makes the body colder when moisture cools down.
"The importance with layers is making sure that you are not over-layering to the point where you're uncomfortable,” she advised. “You don't want to be overheating or the task at hand that you're doing."
Cold temperatures put extremities at risk for frostbite, and layering applies to hands and feet as well.
"Mitts are always preferred over gloves,” said Wood. “In Extreme cold weather, you could put a mitt over top of a glove. Those really thin gloves that you can purchase are great underneath a glove. You want to make sure that if you are layering, you can also layer your hands."
In addition to layered gloves or mittens, Wood recommended using hand and foot warmers.
"That way, if you're starting to get really, really cold, you have that alternative in your bag or your backpack to always have those hand warmers or foot warmers."
Fabric choice plays a significant role in staying dry and warm. Some materials retain moisture, which can lead to freezing.
"Avoid cotton clothing because it holds moisture and will make you feel colder,” Wood explained. “Instead, opt for wool or synthetic fabrics that wick away moisture and keep you warm even if they get damp.”
Water-resistant outer layers are essential, especially for gloves.
"With the type of layers and the extreme weather that we are experiencing, it (the cold) can absolutely cause damage coming through the fabric,” she advised. "I recommend if you are buying those stretchy gloves, still get a pair, but make sure you're getting the nice warm pair over top.”
Even for short trips, it’s important to be prepared for unexpected delays or vehicle breakdowns. Wood said having an emergency kit on hand with extra layers, a blanket, and non-perishable food items is handy, along with a few other essential survival tools.
"Making sure you have hand warmers, foot warmers in there, some sort of heat so you can have a candle in this weather," Wood advised.
A small shovel, extra clothing, and high-energy snacks like granola bars can also be life-saving in extreme cold.
Winter weather in Saskatchewan can be unpredictable, and dressing properly is key to staying warm and avoiding frostbite.
"Layers are the key,” Wood emphasized. "Just putting on the appropriate layers for what you're going to be doing, and ensuring that outer layer should be wind and waterproof as well.”