With temperatures dropping and winter conditions approaching, the Province is reminding British Columbians to take steps now to prepare for cold weather and potential storms.

Emergency officials recommend reviewing household emergency plans, checking heating systems, and ensuring that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly. Residents are also encouraged to keep extra blankets, batteries, and flashlights on hand in case of a power outage.

People travelling across the province are urged to check road reports through DriveBC and to allow extra time for changing conditions.

Winter tires are mandatory on many provincial highways between October and April.

Communities across B.C. will again be operating warming spaces and shelters throughout the cold season.

Nearly 6,500 shelter beds are funded province-wide this winter, including nearly eight hundred Extreme Weather Response spaces that open when temperatures become dangerous.

Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbours, friends, or anyone who may need support during extreme weather.

For more information, visit Government of British Columbia.