Be prepared as snow and below normal temperatures head our way

Photo: Contributed

Frigid winter temperatures and snow are making their way to B.C. and government agencies are warning residents to take precautions.

Cold temperatures, dipping into the low double digits are expected to reach the Interior of the province Saturday evening and remain for much of the week with daytime highs between -10C and -14C throughout much of next week.

Snow is forecast through much of the weekend with more on the way mid-week.

If you're driving, make sure you drive according to conditions, check the forecast before venturing out and pack a winter survival kit including a window scraper, snow brush, flashlight and batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets extra water and food.

Motorists should stay off the road if conditions worsen and to give roadway maintenance plenty of room to do their job if you must travel.

Warming centres may also be activated if warranted to protect vulnerable populations.

Here are some additional tips to help stay safe during the winter and extreme weather events...

• Wear winter gear: Always wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Dressing in layers, with a wind- and water-resistant outer layer, provides flexibility for changing conditions. To avoid frostbite, cover as much exposed skin as possible by wearing hats, scarves and gloves. Try to stay dry and change out of wet clothing as soon as possible.

• Be prepared for power outages: Severe weather can cause power outages. Be prepared for up to one week by developing a household emergency plan and putting together an emergency kit. If you encounter a downed or damaged power line, assume it is live and a danger. Stay back at least 10 metres (the length of a bus) and call 911 immediately to report it.

• Winterize your home: Now is a good time to winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, weather-stripping doors and windows, clearing rain gutters and removing tree branches that could fall during windstorms.