Dear American Cousin:
Please remember the following things that we Canadians have to re-learn every October.
1) Travelling at the same speeds on snow covered roads that you did on dry roads is not wise.
2) Shoveling your driveway is taxing. Take it slow. One scoop at a time. Take a break when you get winded, and then start again when you get your breath back. No one needs to die over a shoveled driveway.
3) If you can't see 10' in front of you, and the snow isn't letting up, and the road hasn't been plowed, and you don't have a winter survival kit in your car... stay home.
4) A winter survival kit for your car should include: a shovel, a windshield scraper, a small broom, battery powered radio, bottled water, non-perishable high calorie food (snack bars, candy bars, etc.), matches, small candles, extra hats, extra mitts, extra gloves, blanket or sleeping bag, rock salt/kitty litter/sand, first aid kit, jumper cables, emergency flares, cell phone charger/adapter and cable, any prescription meds., a whistle.
5) If someone else looks like they are struggling (driving, shoveling, walking, waiting for a bus, having a smoke...) stop and ask if they need help. The best thing that they can say is, "Nope."
Good luck with Snowmageddon.
-- Pat
