cold student

Resident rescues stranded international student from frigid peril

Jan 12, 2024 | 3:27 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Many in a northern climate understand the dangers of exposure to extreme cold weather. If it wasn’t for the acute insight of a resident, a young international student could have faced dire consequences.

Extreme cold puts everyone at risk. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill. Prince George resident Beverly Best was driving home this week and noticed something unusual when she noticed a young lady walking on the side of the road in unseasonal clothing.

“She informed me that she had just moved here to Prince George in December from India, and she didn’t have very good English, but she knew enough that she was scared. She was really scared. She was so cold, her hands were starting to hurt.”

Beverly Best

Prince George Resident

At the time, the temperature was hovering around minus 25. Best pulled over and asked the young lady if she needed help.

After ensuring her passenger was safe, she later wondered if other international students were unaware of the dangers of the extreme cold.

CNC has a diverse international student community originating from regions with milder climates. The student union actively engages with these students, providing them with resources and support to help them acclimate to their new environment.

“Before the winter semester begins, CNC hosted a Zoom session in which they provided information to the students on how they should get prepared for the winters.”

Anuroop Kaur

College of New Caledonia Students’ Union

Best would like to encourage other drivers who see people battling the extreme cold to take the time to ask if they need help.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

TikTok: @DaveBrancoVJ