Author Archives: siksiAdmin

• Matrix Graduates Shine: Empowering Success Stories

  May 17, 2024 12:18 pm Leave a Comment

  Vanessa Doore, B.HSc. – Addictions Team Leader

  The Addictions program has been undergoing the restructuring of our service deliveries; the new framework includes evidence-based practices that prioritizes the needs of the clients by incorporating an evidence based model for recovery; “Stages of Change”. Rather than focusing on the immediate addiction, this model focuses on changing the behavioral of the individual to address the addiction.

  Substance abuse and addiction is an individualized disease; therefore, the treatment programs are designed specifically to address each clients’ needs. The focus is to establish a relationship with the client and providing them with one-on-one support throughout their recovery journey. This program was designed utilizing evidence-based interventions and traditional models to provide a comprehensive holistic treatment- a mind, body, and spirit focus. The 16-week outpatient Matrix program is one of the recovery programs that our services implemented to support the preparation & maintenance stage of recovery.  The Matrix Model combines a variety of behavioral therapies to promote positive and healthy changes to an individual’s thoughts and behaviors that lead to substance abuse. The Matrix program incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, 12-step support groups, motivational interviewing, and family therapy.

  We are pleased to announce that we had 16 clients complete the first 16-week Matrix Outreach program. To register the for the fall Matrix session please call the Addictions team at (403) 734-5687.

• Meet the therapists of Siksika Mental Health Services: Continued

  May 16, 2024 3:43 pm Leave a Comment

  The role of a therapist is to jump into the client’s world, and support them in walking out towards healing.

  Therapists don’t give advice, because this would require them to base their input on their own experience. Their role is to support a person through their experience, and journey with them towards healing

  Meet some of our Siksika Mental Health Therapists! We have many as part of our wonderful team.

  Andrea Horwath – Registered Psychologist

  

  Andrea has been working in mental health care for over 10 years. She is a Registered Psychologist who specializes in trauma therapy for PTSD, CPTSD, Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), Anxiety, and Emotional Regulation including anger management,

  Andrea became a psychologist after she worked through years of personal trauma and realized the positive impact it had on her life. She truly loves seeing how mental health therapy can improve the lives of others who take that brave step to ask for support.

  Working with Siksika Nation members is multifaceted due to the intergenerational trauma many have experienced. Each client receives a personal approach to their circumstances. There’s not one specific method that fits every member’s needs. Andrea takes the time to get to know each client as an individual in order to create a plan, with their input, so their healing journey is successful.

  Malvern Nyamande, Clinical Social Worker

  

  My name is Malvern, Melvin, Malv…as long as there is something like a “Mal” or a “Vern” in there. :)  I am a Clinical Social Worker and have been working on Siksika Nation with children, teenagers, families, and parents. 

  I never imagined being a Clinical Social Worker in the beginning. I wanted to be an Accountant because of my parents. My parents thought a career in Accounting would be a ticket out of poverty. Nah!!! I did not want to sit behind a desk the rest of my life therefore I quit. Then I embarked on a journey of truck driving for FedEx Ground, worked at Chicken On the Way, and Home Depot. While working in all these places people always came to me for counselling. From there I decided to pursue Clinical counselling. I guess you can say my love for people brought me to where I am today.

  People who work for Siksika Mental Health are very caring, compassionate, non-judgemental and passionate about what they do. Siksika Mental Health teams are so motivated to see Siksika Nation thrive spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally. We are working hard to reducing and eliminating the stigma around seeking help.  

  Adriana Sorbo – Registered Psychologist and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor

  

  My name is Adriana Sorbo. I am a registered psychologist and a registered play therapist-supervisor. I use play as therapy in my work I with children and families. I live in Calgary with my family, our cat, dog and fish.

  From a young age I knew I wanted to help young people overcome difficult experiences in their lives so they could grow to be intentional contributing community members.

  We each come to our roles as therapists with our own perspectives and life experiences and this gives the team so much depth. What connects us is our commitment to meeting the community’s needs in any way we can.

  Angela Grier – Registered Provisional Psychologist

  

  Oki, my name is Piiohksoopanskii (Singing Loudly Far Away)/ Angela Grier (Piikani/Blackfoot). I am a mother to four incredible human beings and a grandmother to my Meadow. I am extremely honoured to be a part of the Siksika Mental Health Clinic and the Siksika community. I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist and Siksika’s first mental health intern and extremely grateful to Dr. Quintina for this incredible opportunity.

  Throughout my career I have been afforded opportunities to advocate for our people and communities, including providing youth and adult education related to decolonization. As a practitioner, my priority is to support our people, communities, and uplift our youth.  I have had the privilege of working with Siksika Outreach for nearly three years and it is a highlight of my work; while also supporting all ages at our clinic.

  By using combined approaches of Psychotherapy (traditional talk therapy) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, we support clients to gain meaning and control of their lives. As a trained Accelerated Resolution Therapist (ART), we can support clients within a single session. You can learn more about ART at https://acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com.

  As a practicing Blackfoot citizen, I integrate Blackfoot philosophies to integrate cultural and holistic approaches of the Mind, Body and Spirit alongside modern interventions to address our complex and intergenerational trauma. Through Telehealth and video sessions, and in-person, I work to accommodate my clients when faced with transportation barriers.

• Meet the therapists of Siksika Mental Health Services

  May 14, 2024 1:10 pm Leave a Comment

  The role of a therapist is to jump into the client’s world, and support them in walking out towards healing.

  Therapists don’t give advice, because this would require them to base their input on their own experience. Their role is to support a person through their experience, and journey with them towards healing

  Meet some of our Siksika Mental Health Therapists!

  Maria Red Gun – Registered Provisional Psychologist/Mental Health Intern

  

  My name is Maria Red Gun, I am married to Preston Red Gun for 14 years and have one son. I graduated with my BA in Psychology and double majored in Native American Studies at the University of Montana in July 2015. I graduated with my Master of Counselling in Psychology May 2022 at Yorkville University, New Brunswick.

  My experiences include working at Henry Three Suns Child and Youth Society as a child and youth support worker, worked with Addiction as an addiction case worker and Matrix Facilitator. Now, I am a registered Provisional Psychologist working as a Mental Health Intern as a therapist. 

  I pursued a career in psychology because human behavior had always been an interest of mine and at first, I just wanted to focus on Native American Studies, however mostly picked psychology classes in my undergrad and the advisor talked me into applying to their Psychology program. I also have family members who also pursued the direction of Psychology, and it just became a great interest to me.

  I have worked here at Siksika Health since January 2020 as an addictions case worker and now as a therapist.  We have an amazing team that will go above and beyond to support each other. I believe to have a healthy team it goes a long way because if we’re supportive of each other it makes a huge difference when working with the community, especially when it comes to our own mental health and the mental health of the community.

  Dr. Michele Fercho – Registered Psychologist

  

  I have been a psychologist for 21 years. I have worked at many places, but working at Siksika is my favourite by far. I have two children who are currently in University in Victoria, and when they are away, it is just me and my dog, but he is very good company! I love to hike, ski in the winter, and be active outside. I am currently taking hip hop lessons and love to do yoga.

  I have always been curious about people and what makes them tick. Luckily, I was able to translate that into a career that I love. Plus, it is always a bonus to witness people healing. and feeling better, that is one of the best things about psychology.  Siksika Mental Health is safe space, we work hard to protect privacy and confidentiality. And we are trained to help people manage anxiety, depression, to heal and resolve trauma. Reach out, we are here!

  Dr. Bob Pogue – Registered Psychology

  

  Oki my name is Dr. Bob Pogue and I have been a practicing psychotherapist and counsellor for 25 years.  I have a private practice in Calgary and have also been working at Siksika Nation for close to 8 years. In my position at Siksika, I primarily work with adults and couples and I am drawn to working with trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and anger management.  I am married and have two adult children.  In my spare time I enjoy woodworking, renovating my house, and going for walks and hikes with my wife. 

  For as long as I can remember I have been fascinated with the way our minds work and how at times our minds fool us into patterns of thinking and behaving that are unhealthy or even harmful, and yet we take the unhealthy direction over a healthy one. For equally as long, I have also been fascinated by carpentry, welding, electrical and pretty much everything related to building construction.  Because of this interest I pursued a degree in Engineering and then worked as a petroleum and pipeline engineer for 10 years. After dealing with a difficult divorce and a personal battle with anxiety and depression, I left my engineering career and pursued a Masters degree and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology.  Eight years ago the Siksika Mental Health team consisted of three therapists and a waiting list that was at least two to four months long.  Now we are a team of 12 clinicians, all with different skills, backgrounds and training and we now have the ability to treat all ages and pretty much all problem areas. 

  Deb Nunziata – Registered Psychologist

  

  I do provide counseling in my private practice but for Siksika I conduct psychoeducational assessments. My primary role is the Student Services Coordinator for Golden Hills School Division. I am a teacher and a registered psychologist with over 30 years of experience.

  As a special education teacher I realized that many children have mental health problems that are barriers to their learning which is why I returned to university and completed a Masters in Educational Psychology. For the past 3 years, I have worked with Alberta Health Services as part of the creative team to develop a Mental Health Literacy resource for elementary-age children.

  I feel it is important that everyone understands that we all have mental health and that there is a difference between mental distress, a mental health problem, and a mental disorder and that using the right language to talk about mental health is critical. Mental health literacy can help reduce stigma and encourages help-seeking behavior. What is good for our body is good for our brain so sleep, exercise, nutrition, and social connection are essential to good mental health.

• Siksika Health Services Thanks You for coming to Health Fair 2024

  April 19, 2024 12:07 pm Leave a Comment

  

  

  Siksika for joining us at yesterday’s Health Fair 2024! From start to finish, the action-packed day was full of inspiration and encouragement, featuring two incredible special guests. So many many thanks to our Siksika Health staff and team for your hard work in putting the event together, and to YOU, Siksika for joining us and making the day as special as it was.

  Health Fair Survey

  Health Fair 2024 participants and attendees are invited to complete a survey to let us know your thoughts, reflections, and recommendations for the Siksika Health Fair.

  Photos with Georges and Ryan

  For those who had professional photos taken with Georges St. Pierre and Ryan Straschnitzki, please stay tuned as these will be shared for high resolution download on our website next week.

• Safe Sleep for Babies

  March 11, 2024 8:06 am Leave a Comment

  

  Siksika Health Services recognizes Safe Sleep Week from March 11-15, which promotes safe sleep practices for parents and caregivers of young infants.

  Good sleep habits are important for your baby’s physical health and emotional well-being and creating a safe sleep environment for your baby will lower the risk of injury and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

  SIDS is when a baby (less than 1 year old), that seems healthy dies suddenly in their sleep, and the cause of death cannot be explained. We don’t know what causes SIDS, so it cannot be prevented, but there are things you can do to help lower the risk:

  Smoke-Free

  Being smoke-free, before and after birth, decreases your baby’s risk of SIDS. Smoking during pregnancy is one of the biggest risk factors for SIDS. One out of three SIDS deaths could be prevented if pregnant women did not smoke. Second-hand smoke also increases the risk of SIDS after your baby is born. Do not let anyone smoke around your baby – in the house, in the car or anywhere your baby spends time. 

  Breastfeeding

  Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk of SIDS. There are lots of reasons to breastfeed. One important reason is that breastfeeding can help protect your baby from SIDS. The longer you can breastfeed, the more protection your baby will have. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months, and should continue after complementary foods start.

  Bedding

  The safest place for your baby to sleep or nap is in a crib, cradle or bassinet that meets current Canadian safety regulations. A safe infant sleep surface has:

  • A firm, flat mattress with a tightly fitted sheet
  • No gaps between the mattress and sides
  • No loose, soft items – including blankets, pillows, bumper pads etc.

  Not recommended for sleep:

  • Bed-side sleepers that attach to an adult bed are not recommended. 
  • Baby nests or pods (small, portable pads with soft, padded sides) and other soft products like nursing pillows are not recommended for sleep. 
  • Products with a sleep surface that is not flat, like inclined sleepers, baby hammocks and crib wedges, should not be used – even for babies who spit up a lot. 
  • High chairs, baby swings, bouncers, strollers and car seats are made for babies, but not for sleep. If your baby falls asleep in a high chair, bouncer or swing, be sure to move them to a crib, cradle or bassinet. If your baby falls asleep while travelling in a car seat or stroller, move your baby to a crib, cradle or bassinet when you arrive at your destination. 
  • Sofas or arm chairs, air mattresses and adult beds are not made for babies to sleep on. 

  Overheating increases your baby’s risk of SIDS

  • Your baby is safest when they sleep in simple, fitted sleepwear – like a sleeper. 
  • Keep the room at a comfortable temperature. 
  • Babies do not need a hat when indoors, as it can make them too hot.
  • Babies do not need blankets when they sleep. 

  Room sharing

  Room sharing means placing your baby to sleep in their own safe sleep space – a crib, cradle or bassinet – which is placed in your room next to your bed. Room sharing is recommended for your baby’s first 6 months – the time when the risk of SIDS is the highest.

  Bed sharing is when a baby sleeps with an adult or other child on the same sleep surface, such as an adult bed, sofa or armchair. Bed sharing increases a baby’s risk of SIDS and suffocation.

  Some parents end up bed sharing with their baby, even though they do not plan to. It is important to understand the risks and know the situations that make bed sharing especially unsafe for babies, so you can take steps to avoid them. These situations put babies at especially high risk when bed sharing:

  • The baby is less than 4 months old or was born preterm or with low birthweight
  • The person bed sharing with the baby has taken alcohol or drugs
  • The person bed sharing with the baby has taken medication that makes them tired or harder to wake up
  • The baby’s mother smoked during pregnancy, or the person bed sharing with the baby is a smoker, or if there is smoking in the household
  • The sleep surface is soft – sleeping with a baby on a sofa, armchair, air mattress, waterbed or bed with a mattress topper is very unsafe
  • There is more than one other person (or a pet) bed sharing with the baby
  • There is loose bedding, pillows, blankets and other objects near the baby

  Parents and all caregivers – including grandparents, family members, childcare providers, babysitters and friends – can help keep babies safe by following the steps for safe sleep for every sleep – nap time and nighttime, at home, in childcare settings and when travelling.

• Every Child Matters Calgary Hitmen Game Thank-You

  February 13, 2024 3:16 pm Leave a Comment

  Thank you, Siksika, for joining us at this year’s Every Child Matters hockey game, and for celebrating this year’s theme of HOPE: Hope, Opportunity, Pathway, Empowerment, with a special focus on youth. Your support is truly what makes this event possible. Together we can create and support a hopeful future for our young people.

  First Nations youth, and youth of all backgrounds are our collective future. Their hope is our hope. And when they are empowered with opportunities and pathways to pursue those opportunities, we all win.

  The annual Every Child Matters hockey game is not just a sporting event, but a celebration of hope, unity, and commitment to the well-being of our youth. Of ALL of our youth.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  “Yesterday was a fantastic day with Siksika Health and the Calgary Hitmen hockey team, it was the 4th year they worked together on the Every Child Matters game with the Moose Jaw Warriors. It was an outstanding success, a big shout out to both organizations for a truly inspiring day bring us hope and empowerment to all in attendances, huge turnout of people attended were. I spoke to the players again before the game, and bestowed two players with Blackfoot names in the dressing room. Butch Wolf Leg and Eldon Weasel Child did a phenomenal job doing the play by play in the broadcast booth again. I contributed with the colourful analyst at times very humorous; all three of us kept the people glued to their radios, very entertaining. Thank you all for your work. The dancers and singers were just sensational – wow it made us proud to be First Nations people. Years ago they tried to stop our songs and dances, but we’re still speaking our mother tongue and we’re still singing and dancing. Great job to all the volunteers.”

  ~ Former Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman

  

• Things you need to know for the Every Child Matters Game

  February 8, 2024 1:44 pm Leave a Comment

  

  The Every Child Matters hockey game will take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta at 2:00pm on February 10, 2024 between the Calgary Hitmen and the Moose Jaw Warriors. Tickets can be purchased on the Calgary Hitmen website, www.hitmenhockey.com/tickets

  This is the fourth annual Every Child Matters game presented by the Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club and Siksika Health Services in partnership with presenting sponsors: Siksika Family Services Corporation, Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary, First Nations Health Consortium and the Blackfoot Confederacy. Here are some things that are important to note for game day.

  Game Day Ticket Pick Up

  For those who have registered for tickets but not yet picked up, tickets will be available for pick up between 12:45-2:00pm at West Entrance ticket counter (main entrance with large staircase on the West side of the building)

  A small number of remaining free tickets will be available, first come first served, for pickup starting at 12:45pm at the West Entrance ticket counter. Any additional remaining tickets from those registered for, but not claimed will be released at 2:00pm.

  Saddledome Entry

  

  Dancers/drummers who are part of the in-game features are asked to arrive at 11:00am at the Telus Club entrance. Doors open for the general public at 1:00pm.

  For Elders and/or those with accessibility requirements, concourse level entry available via top level of Parkade. Paid parking is accessible in parkade, as available. During this time vehicle and pedestrian access to the ‘Dome will be restricted and parking may be limited. Check out the LIVE Access map to stay up to date on detours and road closures.

  Blackfoot Broadcast

  

  We will be broadcasting the Every Child Matters game on Siksika Nation’s “The Nation’s Station” (104.7FM). This broadcast will be in Blackfoot and hosted by Siksika Nation elders and knowledge keepers: Francis “Butch” Wolf Leg, Eldon Weasel Child and former Siksika Nation Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman.

  Links to Blackfoot broadcast online:

  • Siksika Media: https://streamdb6web.securenetsystems.net/cirruscontent/CFXX?CFID=cacc20e3-f5b9-48f1-9771-7ed2997f7ea9&CFTOKEN=0
  • My Tuner: https://mytuner-radio.com/radio/cfxx-radio-siksika-media-458033/
  • Radio Canada Online: https://www.radio-canada-online.com/cfxx-radio-siksika-media

• What To Do When The Advisory is Over

  January 25, 2024 2:02 pm Leave a Comment

  Once a Drinking Water Advisory is lifted, you need to flush, clean, and sanitize the following:

  • Water pipes
  • Water treatment devices
  • Plumbed appliances
  • Water storage tanks

  Before you use water in your home:

  • Remove all aerator or screen devices from faucets
  • Run hot and cold water faucets for at least five minutes before you use them.
  • If you live in an apartment or condominium, run all faucets for at least five minutes, until the water is clear and any air in the plumbing has been released.
  • Rinse out any sediment or debris from the aerator or screen devices and put them back on the faucet.
  • Flush, clean, and sanitize appliances with water line connections (e.g., fridges with water and ice dispensers) following manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Disinfect water filtration devices following manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Run your water softener through a regeneration cycle following manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Replace filters on any tap water filtration devices, and flush the fixture according to the manufacturer’s directions
  • Hot water heaters and hot water heating systems may require that water be drained to get rid of any sediment.
  • If your hot water heater was set below 45 °C, drain and refill the tank.

  For questions or more info, please feel free to contact Public Works at 403-499-8819, Environmental Health at 780-719-8782, or Siksika Health Services at 403-376-1732 for emergency purposes.

• UPDATED: Extreme Cold Temperatures for Southern Alberta

  January 9, 2024 1:06 pm Leave a Comment

  With the current extreme cold weather in Province of Alberta, we at Siksika Health Services and Siksika Emergency Services would like to take this time to provide some information about just how serious this can be, and some tips to stay safe.

  Keep family and community members informed

  Cold weather can be especially challenging for our vulnerable people and ohmahkitapiiks, and a simple act of kindness can make a world of difference.

  • Bundle Up & Stay Warm: Encourage elders to dress in layers, wear warm clothing, and use blankets indoors to stay cozy.
  • Hot Meals & Hydration: Make sure they have access to hot, nourishing meals and remind them to stay hydrated, even in the colder months.
  • Home Safety Checks: Assist in helping to keep their living spaces warm and safe.
  • Regular Check-Ins: A friendly phone call or a quick visit can make a huge impact. Check in on your elderly neighbors regularly to provide companionship and see if they need any assistance.
  • Transportation Support: Offer help with transportation for essential needs like grocery shopping.

  If your furnace shuts off

  • Turn on your oven to 350 degrees and 2 stove burners on the front to medium. DO NOT LEAVE THEM UNATTENDED.
  • Check your filter, check for ice on the exhaust, check your thermostat battery and cycle the power to your furnace.
  • If this doesn’t work, please call Siksika Housing dispatch line at 403-734-3815

  With the low temperatures we are currently experiencing, frostbite and hypothermia are risks we need to watch out for:

  Frostbite

  Frostbite occurs when the skin and tissues underneath freeze. Signs of frostbite include:

  • loss of sensation in the frozen area
  • cold, pale “wax-like” skin

  Frostbite can progress to deep frostbite, where an entire hand or foot can freeze, and affects the tissues deeper down. This may appear as white, waxy skin that turns greyish blue, and feels cold and hard to the touch.

  Hypothermia

  The most hazardous effect of cold weather is hypothermia. Hypothermia is a condition where the body’s temperature drops below 35 degrees Celsius. Hypothermia may progress from mild to severe if not recognized. This can cause an individual or a worker to become disoriented, less alert, and less attentive to the job or task at hand.

  The symptoms and effects of hypothermia occur in the following order:

  1. Shivering

  2. Slowing of the heart and breathing

  3. Lack of coordination

  4. Lack of organ function, such as kidneys

  5. Disorientation, irritability, unusual behaviour, shivering stops

  6. Stopping of the heart

  Hypothermia may be brought on by lack of adequate clothing, wet windy environments, falling into cold water, or any situation in which the body cannot maintain its core temperature. Unfortunately, individuals or workers affected by hypothermia may be unaware of their condition and may even resist help. If an individual or a worker is suspected to be suffering from hypothermia, aid should be administered even if they refuse.

  Here are some tips to stay safe while outside during extreme cold temperatures:

  General:

  • Wear layered high visibility clothing.  Three layers are most effective:
    • Inner layer absorbs body moisture and keeps it away from the skin.  Long underwear of wool or Gore-Tex material (non-flammable).  Socks should be of wool, nylon blend or Gore-Tex material as well
    • Second layer is insulation.  Wool, synthetic insulation or waterfowl down are appropriate. Should be flame retardant if outer layer is removed.
    • Outer layer protects from wind, moisture and dirt.  This layer must be removable to prevent over-heating and should be flame retardant.
  • Since most of the body’s heat loss is from the head and neck area, keep those areas covered to conserve body heat.
  • Fire retardant hardhat liners and high collar outerwear should be worn in winter months.
  • Mittens, gloves and boots should have insulated liners that are removable so they can be dried daily.
  • An extra pair of dry gloves and socks should be kept with you.
  • Sunglasses may be necessary to protect the eyes from snow glare.

  Traveling During Extreme Conditions:

  • Only travel if absolutely necessary.
  • Plan your trip.  Tell someone your plans, route, destination and time of arrival.  Arrange to check in occasionally during your trip so that you will be missed if something happens.  
  • Dress or pack according to the weather conditions, even if you don’t plan on going outside.
  • Keep your vehicle well maintained and with as full a tank of gas as practical. This includes ensuring you have a good battery for your vehicle. Have an extension cord in your vehicle as well in the event you need to plug your vehicle in once you get to your destination.
  • Do not try to drive until the vehicle window has been cleared of snow, ice, and condensation so you have full visibility.  Also, clear your roof, hood, headlights and tail lights so you can see and be seen while driving.
  • If stranded, stay with the vehicle.
  • If stranded, beware of carbon monoxide poisoning resulting from insufficient ventilation of the passenger compartment.  Open your downwind window to ventilate, especially when using a portable heater in the passenger compartment.  Keep your exhaust system leak free to prevent asphyxiation.  Try to keep the tailpipe clear of snow.
  • Plan ahead.  Depending upon communication resources and the potential for quick rescue, the following listing of equipment that may be helpful if you become stranded include:
    • High energy foods (candy bars, peanut butter & crackers, etc.)
    • Tools (adjustable wrench, screw driver, pocket knife, etc.)
    • Bottle water
    • Windshield scraper
    • Sunglasses
    • Tow rope
    • Blanket/sleeping bag
    • Road flares
    • Flashlight and spare batteries
    • First aid kit
    • Booster cables
    • Spare clothes
    • Collapsible shovel

  Working Outside During Extreme Conditions:

  • Use the buddy system.  
  • Watch co-workers for signs and symptoms of hypothermia.
  • When possible, schedule work to avoid the most extreme weather conditions.
  • Stay sheltered form the wind.
  • Have heated rest areas nearby.  Take regular rest breaks that allow enough time to warm up. 
  • Be cautious of loose or bulky clothing becoming caught in moving or rotating equipment or machinery.
  • Keep clothing dry.  Brush off snow before going indoors so it doesn’t melt on clothing.
  • If heavy perspiration has taken place, avoid over-cooling when removing outer layers. Drink liquids to prevent dehydration.
  • Maintain core body temperature by consuming warm liquids and a diet high in fat and carbohydrates