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The recent snowfalls and generally icy weather conditions in our humble burgh have shed light on the gripping reality that Dunedinites aren’t prepared to deal with anything more serious than sleet. Situated at a latitude of almost 46° south, Dunedin somehow still manages to act surprised when snow falls at sea level and roads get icy. Besides pointing out that even a metre of snow (devastating as it may be) should never call for an entire city to grind to a halt, I’d also like to provide some insightful tips on how to keep living your life during inclement weather.

In most countries around the world, snowfall does not prevent people from getting out of bed and going to work or school. The key to this is having a way to get from A to B. If you should venture out, you might come across other commuters who also need to be places. Be patient with one another. If you are driving, drive defensively and don’t be afraid to be the asshole that drives way below the speed limit. At least you’ll be the live, uninjured asshole.

For some people, the best option is to walk to your destination. Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes with traction on the soles and try to keep your hands free in case you should slip and fall. Your laptop will probably not cushion the blow effectively. Pulling some thick socks over your shoes will help ease slippage on icy pavements, although it will make you look like a certified idiot. Do it anyway. If all else fails, there are big, brave buses that keep running long after lesser vehicles wimp out – sometimes they even carry passengers.

Dressing warmly is not (as some of you may think) a sign of weakness – rather, it signifies a healthy respect for the power of nature. These days, they make articles of clothing for every conceivable body part (including nipple-warmers). Surely you can rustle up a coat, hat, scarf and gloves. Consider these the bare essentials of your winter wardrobe and embellish as desired. Can’t bring yourself to layer up? That bottle of vodka you were going to buy anyway will warm you from the inside out. Go for it – you have my permission.

Providing that all this is too tough, you can always stay home with movies and hot cocoa. Forecasts can usually predict a large storm accurate to within a couple of days, so stock up on essential supplies like toilet paper and noodles ahead of time and then settle in to wait.

Oh, and lastly – just suck it up. You don’t know the meaning of real snow.