How you feel when you see fresh snow in the morning probably has a lot to do with if your morning includes a commute. No matter where you live in Canada, winter driving presents its own challenges from slippery roads, to white out storms, to freezing rain and mucky thaws. The good news is taking time to be prepared can make all the difference this season. Here are some tips for safe winter driving:
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- Get your vehicle ready with winter tires. Winter tires provide extra traction on slippery roads and perform better in colder temperatures. Don’t forget to check your tire pressure because the cold weather can cause more frequent decreases.
- Have a car emergency kit. Be ready for potential problems with a kit than includes first aid supplies, food and water, a blanket, flashlight, small shovel and ice scraper, and kitty litter or sand for traction. You can buy a kit on our website or build your own using this checklist.
- Allow yourself extra time to get where you need to go. Don’t rush when you’re driving in winter conditions, even when roads look clear there can be more disguised hazards like black ice. Remember that it’s far better to be late than to get in an accident! Even if you’re running late, never pass a snowplow – stay back for your own safety and let them do their job.
- Make sure you can see properly by clearing your car of all snow and ice and turning on lights when visibility is poor.
- Check the weather before you go and have a plan. Check the weather before you leave and plan accordingly. For longer trips, have a plan in place if the weather turns, such as a place to stop or alternate routes. Avoid travel during storms and bad weather when you can – follow public safety warnings that ask people stay off roads.
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