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Canada’s Coldest: Must-Know Winter Hacks for Surviving Saskatchewan Winter

Your first winter in Saskatchewan can be the most exciting yet challenging time as a new immigrant. Preparation is the key to thriving in Saskatchewan’s harsh winters, and here are some winter hacks to make sure you thrive in the unforgiving winter of Saskatchewan Winter:

1. Winterize Your Vehicle

Fitting Winter Tire for Winter Snow

Fit your car with winter tires, and keep an emergency kit in the trunk. This would include blankets to warm up with, some snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. Check out here for Winter Driving Tips.

2. Winter-Proof Your Home

insulate windows and doors in winter

Check for drafts around your windows and doors, and seal them using weather stripping. Consider buying thermal or insulated curtains that help retain warmth within your home.

3. Get Snow-Clearing Tools

a man clearing snow in front of his house

Purchase a decent heavy-duty snow shovel, car ice scraper, and, if needed, a snow blower. Keep on hand a stock of salt or sand for icy areas in your driveway or walkway.

4. Know Road Safety in Winter

road safety board in snowy road

If you are inexperienced driving on snow and ice, enroll in a winter driving class. Drive slower speeds and keep a greater distance when driving on icy roads.

5. Plan for Emergencies

portable charger for backup in snow

Prepare for power outages with extra blankets, flashlights, batteries, and food that doesn’t spoil.

6. Stay Active Indoors

a woman doing yoga next to christmas tree

Develop an at-home workout plan, sign up for indoor recreational activities, or join a gym to maintain your health and not feel lethargic during this time of year.

7. Get a Humidifier

a couple with a kid sitting with humidifier on

Cold winter air can be super dry; causing nasal and throat irritation. Therefore, a humidifier will prevent dry skin, throat, and sinuses, making your home more comfortable.

8. Learn to Layer Your Clothes

a happy woman wearing different layers of clothes and smiling in a snowy outdoors

Wear appropriate layers of clothing: the “three-layer rule” – a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer (like fleece), and a waterproof outer layer.

9. Stay hydrated

an afro-american man holding cup standing outside in a snowy day

Cold air is dehydrating. Yes, even in cold conditions take lots of water to keep yourself hydrated.

10. Read Weather Reports

a lady wearing warm turtle neck, checking weather on her phone

Download some reliable weather app, or check out on internet at all times. Pay particular attention to the wind chill temperature which can make it much colder than the ambient temperature actually is. Temperature in Canada can keep fluctuating; so it’s important to stay updated on latest temperature forecast.

11. Stock Food

food stocked-up

Keep some stock of nonperishable food items and staples so that you don’t get at the mercy of grocery stores during a severe snowfall or blizzard.

12. Be Prepared for SAD

saskatoon covered with snow in a gloomy day

The lack of sunlight during winters might affect your mood. An efficient remedy for it could be light therapy lamps to ward off symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

13. Check Heating Systems

a man fixing heating system in the room

Get your home heating system in good working condition before winter begins and have a backup space heater available.

14. Get Proper Footwear

a pair of brown and black male winter boots on snow

Winter boots should be well-insulated, with good grip to prevent slipping on ice. Consider adding Yaktrax or other forms of ice cleats to shoes for added traction.

15. Know Saskatchewan’s Winter Normals

a man wearing red winter jacket ice-skating down the hill

Learn about typical winter activities such as ice skating, skiing, or sledding. This will keep you fit and able to enjoy the winter season.

16. Use Winter-Appropriate Skincare

a man with beards applying moisturizer on skin - winter hacks

Cold air can be very drying to the skin. Purchase facial and hand moisturizers and know to use lip balm frequently to prevent chapped lips.

17. Be Social

a bunch of friends sitting on a dining table and having chit-chats and laughing

Winters can be very lonely. Look into local immigrant support groups or other community events to find others in your situation and meet new people.

18. Plan Finances

a man checking some paper sitting oh sofa

Plan on rising utility bills for heating in winter. It is always prudent to budget in advance, so these expenses will be comfortably affordable.

19. Get Winter-specific Insurance

a house covered by a cap indicating safeguarding the house by cold

Make sure your car and home are covered with appropriate policies related to winter incidents, such as damage from ice or snow-related car accidents.

20. Invest in Quality Winter Clothing

An Asian woman and kid smiling for photo wearing warm winter clothes in winter

Check out insulated jackets that keep you warm without weighing you down, and make sure to choose materials that are both tough and comfy. Go for waterproof and windproof fabrics to help you tackle those harsh winter conditions like a pro!

21. Get Familiar with Public Transport

a lady wearing yellow jacket waiting for bus

If you don’t drive, and live in big cities, know the winter schedule for buses or trains and check to see if they are equipped to deal with snowy conditions.

22. Enjoy the Season

a couple enjoying hot tea in snow

Winter may be long, but most importantly, know how to enjoy it. Participate in winter festivals or take a walk around winter markets or go on a scenic snow walk. It is a great way of experiencing your new community.

If you follow these essential winter hacks, you’ll be well-prepared to handle Saskatchewan’s coldest months with confidence and comfort. Remember, winter may be harsh, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a season of discovery and fun.

Embrace the beauty of winter, stay active, and build connections with your new community. With these tips, your first Saskatchewan winter can be a memorable and enjoyable experience!

Explore Our Winter Ready Vehicles: https://www.budgetautocentre.com/used/
Get Quick & Easy Financial Approval – Apply Today: https://www.budgetautocentre.com/used-cars-saskatoon-financing/
Stop by Our Location: 429 20th St W, Saskatoon, SK S7M 0X3