Extreme Cold

Winter storms can occur in Squamish and cause power outages, blocked roads, icy conditions, and extremely cold temperatures.  It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes.

How to prepare for a power outage or extreme cold weather alert:

Residents can prepare for power outages and extreme weather conditions by ensuring the following household supplies are on hand:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Small portable AM/FM radio with extra batteries
• Non-perishable food (canned or dried), ensure you have a suitable supply of food for babies, toddlers and pets
• Basic first-aid kit
• Warm blankets, sleeping bags and clothing for added insulation

Preparedness tips:

• If you use a fireplace or wood burning stove, collect and store extra firewood in a dry, covered area
• Charge all cell phones in advance, especially in the event of an expected extreme weather warning or power outage
• Consider having a portable power bank charger on hand to recharge cell phones and other devices
• Drain any water lines that may be exposed to cold temperatures
• Keep an emergency kit and supplies in your vehicle
• Subscribe to the SquamishAlert emergency notification system to receive important emergency information by email, voice or text

The Squamish Emergency Program recommends to be prepared for at least 72 hours, preferably one week. Please refer to our Get Ready page to help build your emergency kit and become better prepared at home.

If there is a cold weather or snow warning:

Review your household emergency plan. Listen or watch for updates on radio, TV, and social media. Prepare an emergency kit and have the BC Hydro number ready in case you need to report an outage. 

• Make an emergency plan
• Prepare and emergency kit
• BC Hydro
• District of Squamish Facebook Page 
• Mountain FM Facebook Page

If you go outdoors:

Dress appropriately. Wind chill can cause cooler temperatures to occur. Limit your time out and watch out for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.

Take care when shoveling. Vigorous exercise and cold temperatures can cause high blood pressure and accelerated heart rates. Be cautious when walking on icy streets.

Phone 9-1-1 if you see utility lines or poles down, or see any sparks, flames or smoke.

• Signs of frostbite
• Signs of hypothermia

If you must drive:

Travel in the day, don’t travel alone, and keep others informed of your schedule. Stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts.

• Prepare a vehicle emergency kit
• DriveBC road conditions map
• Transport Canada: Tips for safe winter driving
• Shift into winter

Learn more about snow and cold:

• Get Prepared Canada: Winter Safety Indoors and Out

Get notified of extreme weather:

• EmergencyInfoBC alerts
• Environment Canada: Weather alerts for BC
• Environment Canada BC on Twitter