Winter Driving...Are you prepared?
Driving in the Canadian winters can be such a challenge as most of us know. Whether it's ice or snow or freezing rain, road conditions can be very unpredictable. We need to be prepared in these conditions. Today, I will share a few of my tips for driving safely in the Canadian winters.
First off, winter tires are a must have for safe winter driving (in Quebec, this is now the law). These tires have a deeper tread and are best on snow and ice. Goodyear still manufactures most of its winter tires in Canada. The deeper treading allows for the tire to clear the snow from it as it rotates. They also remain more flexible in colder temperatures as compared to an all-season tire. For maximum control on snowy and slippery conditions, it is recommended that you install four winter tires, even on a front-wheel drive vehicle.
There are ways to drive safer in the winter too. Ensure that you watch your speed and adjust your speed according to road conditions. Slow down in really icy or snowy situations. Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Transport Canada has lots of excellent information about winter driving.
Many of us don't even think about the weather conditions outside when we go out to our heated garage and get in a warm car to go out. Before heading out on a long trip, it is advisable to check the weather conditions and road conditions. The Weather Network has a great page that breaks down this information by province and then you can further take it to you city. This way, you can be prepared before going out.
Also, make sure to call ahead before traveling. This way, someone will know to watch for you and ensure you arrive when scheduled.
A great new product made in Canada was just launched a few weeks ago: Dad's Wiper Covers. Slip them over your wipers to protect your wiper blades from freezing to your windshield. Simple and efficient!
There are a few must-haves that you should have in your car in case of an emergency. I call this my winter survival kit. This kit should contain:
- A cell phone and change for a payphone if the cell phone cannot be used;
- A first aid kit;
- A flashlight with batteries;
- A candle with a small tin can to keep it in and waterproof matches;
- A couple of granola or energy bars to snack on;
- A blanket;
- An ice scraper (check out Mallory Industries' line of scrapers and snowbrushes made in Canada);
- A shovel (Garant has a great Telescopic Emergency Shovel Snowbrush);
- Warning lights or road flares;
- Booster cables;
- Tow rope.
Of course, you should also carry along a snowsuit, winter boots, a warm hat, scarf and mittens.
If you do get stranded out in the winter, if you have a membership with CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) you can call their number to get roadside assistance. They will send a tow truck to help you regardless if it is a boost that you need or if you have a flat tire or need a tow.
One needs to be prepared for anything when driving in winter conditions. Please make sure you are well prepared and DRIVE SAFE!
Image sources: Flickr-Creative Commons, CAA
