Winter weather

During winter weather, there are increased risks of hypothermia, frostbite, slips, falls, carbon monoxide poisoning and potentially death. Anyone can be impacted by the health effects of winter weather, so be prepared and take action when necessary. 

Some people are at higher risk of experiencing health effects related to winter weather. While anyone who isn’t dressed warmly is at risk of negative health effects , some individuals are at greater risk from winter weather than others. Preparing for and having support during winter weather events is especially important for the following groups:

Populations who are at higher risk of winter weather-related health effects include: 

• People who are unhoused or insecurely housed
• People living in housing without enough insulation, electricity, or heat (including people who can’t afford to use heat).
• People spending long periods of time outdoors (for work, recreation, or transportation)
• Older adults
• Infants and young children
• People with a pre-existing health conditions including heart or lungs conditions, or health conditions that impact blood circulation (e.g. diabetes, or certain medications that constrict blood vessels)
• People who use substances, including alcohol 

We've put together practical tips and resources to help you maintain your health, care for your body and make wise choices this winter. Small, consistent actions can greatly improve your safety and wellness during colder months. Learn more about winter care.

By embracing these strategies, you can actively protect your health this winter:

• Prevent slips and falls
• Stay active and connected
• Ensure winter road safety
• Keep your home safe during winter
• Vaccinate and protect
• Practise good respiratory hygiene

During winter storms and extreme cold 

• Check weather advisories from Environment and Climate Change Canada and emergency alerts from Emergency Info BC.
• Contact your Local Government or First Nation to ask if they provide community supports.
• Know where to go for the right healthcare during winter months.
• Consider rescheduling activities or limiting time outdoors during colder temperatures.
• Check-in on your neighbours, friends and family, especially older adults or people with disabilities who live alone. Make sure they are keeping warm and check if they need supplies, transportation, assistance clearing snow or other support. 

For more information on Public Weather Alerts for British Columbia, visit these  Environment and Climate Change Canada resources (available in English and French):

Online public weather alerts for BC
WeatherCAN App
Hello Weather – Automated telephone forecasts and weather alerts 

For many, winter can take a toll on physical and mental health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to get help when you need it. If you are struggling, there are supports available. 

• Mental health and substance use
• Harm reduction
• Supervised Consumption and Overdose Prevention Sites
• How to access mental health and substance use services

During winter weather events, local governments, First Nations, and non-governmental organizations in the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) region operate shelters or encourage people to use other public spaces (like libraries and community centres) to safely warm up and avoid exposure to the cold. Some spaces are open overnight, and others are available during the day. More spaces may be added during a weather alert, when risk increases due to cold, wind and/or precipitation.  

Many local governments and First Nations post updated information on their social media pages about warming centres or temporary shelters activated during winter weather warnings. 

Shelter options may change quickly based on the current weather conditions and capacity. Confirm with organizations directly if services or spaces are currently available.  

Learn where to find shelter, weather, and emergency information