Tires
Research has proven that even the best all-season tires do not perform as well as quality winter tires. In snowy and icy conditions, traction and handling is dramatically improved by installing winter tires on all 4 wheels.
You should check your tire pressure at least once a month to ensure you are riding on tires that provide that best and balanced road grip.
Slow Down
In winter, keep your vehicle under control at all times by reducing your speed. A slower moving vehicle will always have better stopping control on black ice.
Items to Keep in Your Vehicle
Always keep a snowbrush, scraper and an extra container of windshield washer fluid in your vehicle. You should also keep a First Aid kit, blanket, bag of sand, battery jumping booster cables, folding shovel, flashlight, flares, and emergency food such as snack bars and water.
Clear Your Vehicle of Snow and Ice
Before you begin driving, clear your vehicle of all snow and ice. Not only do they interfere with your vision, they can become dangerous projectiles and blind other vehicles on the road. Winter driving weather is dangerous - without you adding to the dangers.
Stay Informed of Road Conditions
This winter, plan your drive ahead of time by checking road conditions and leaving a few minutes early to allow extra time to reach your destination.
Frequent Changes in Road Conditions
Road conditions can change fast. Stay alert to avoid unpleasant surprises.
If you're cruising the roadway and the sun is shining. Remember - winter isn't summer, so be careful, even in good weather.
Road Maintenance
Snowploughs are there to help you. Avoid passing them because road conditions up ahead could surprise you.
Do not block snowploughs from clearing roadways. Move your vehicle prior to snow clearing. Snowploughs will work around parked vehicles. This causes further road hazards for those vehicles driving on that same roadway where there may now be a snowdrift.
Caution on the Road Near Heavy Vehicles
More than ever, avoid making sudden or dangerous manoeuvres near heavy vehicles. Loss of control by either vehicle can be tragic.
Roadway De-Icing Materials
Highway de-icing materials don't work instantly. They need time to take effect. Always drive defensively.
Black Ice
"Black Ice" is identified by a roadway that appears clear but has formed a layer of ice. The driver would see black asphalt, but may be driving on ice. Braking or turning on black ice can cause fatal results. Drive defensively.
