Stay safe on the roads this winter
Winter driving comes with its own set of challenges, but with a little preparation and mindfulness, you can stay safe on the road. Here are some essential tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during the colder months:
Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is ready for winter conditions by checking:
- Make sure all tires (and spares) are properly inflated and have adequate tread. Consider winter tires for added traction.
- Ensure your battery fully charged and in good condition to handle colder temperatures.
- Top up your anti-freeze to prevent your engine from freezing.
- Make sure your heaters functioning properly to keep you warm.
- Replace windshield wipers if they’re worn, and fill up with winter-grade windshield washer fluid.
- Check all your vehicle lights to ensure they’re working for visibility in shorter days and snowy conditions.
Unexpected situations can happen, so be prepared with a well-stocked emergency kit. Include:
- Warm items: Blankets, extra coats, gloves, and winter hats (toques).
- Traction aids: Sandbags or road salt. (Car floor mats can be used for traction in a pinch)
- Ice scraper and snowbrush: Essential for clearing windshields and mirrors.
- Shovel: Compact and sturdy for digging out of snow.
- Booster cables: To get you or a fellow driver back on the road.
A full tank helps avoid being stranded and ensures your vehicle runs efficiently in the cold. Taking a little extra time can make all the difference:
- Warm up and clean snow off your vehicle before driving to ensure clear visibility.
- Drive slowly: Remember, posted speed limits are for ideal conditions, and winter roads are far from ideal.
- Give snowplows, graders and any other road maintenance vehicles the space to do their job and wait until they allow you to pass.
- Increase your following distance: This gives you more time to stop safely on slippery roads.
- Signal early: Indicate turns sooner than usual to give other drivers plenty of notice.
- Avoid sudden braking or swerving, which can cause you to lose control on icy surfaces.
Bundle up, plan ahead, and drive with care. Wishing you a safe and happy winter season!