A Special Time of Year: Winter and Driving

According to the most recently published Ontario Road Safety Annual Report, in 2007 there were  1882 motor vehicle collisions, 845 personal injuries and 15 persons killed on the roads and highways around Peterborough City and County.

With an approximately 48% of these crashes occurring due to a loss of control, preparing for winter driving is an important preventative.

PLAN AHEAD – Check current and incoming weather and drive accordingly. For example, you may need to allow yourself time for not only getting to your destination but to properly clean your vehicle off (roof, windows, mirrors and lights). Always make sure your gas tank and wiper fluid is sufficiently full.

BE PREPARED – To get ready for whatever weather winter brings your way, complete the following checklist:

1. Tune up Your Vehicle: Ensure all systems, including your exhaust, fuel, heating and cooling, as well as brakes, lights, batteries, tires, and windshield wipers and fluid are in excellent condition.

 

1. Become Familiar with Road Condition Resources: There are many options to determine road conditions before you set out on a trip. Explore these ahead of time so that you are familiar with them when needed.

1. Visit the Traveller’s Road Information Portal Click on “Province of Ontario” and zoom in to find the road conditions, closures and construction activities of your desired route.

1. Or, visit the Weather Network’s Road Conditions webpage

1. Or, call the Ministry of Transportation’s Road Conditions hotline at 1-800-268-4686

 

1. Prepare a Winter Survival Kit: Ensure your vehicle has the following:

1. Easy to reach: ice scraper, snow brush, shovel, sand/kitty litter, wiper fluid, flashlight, fully-charged cell phone

 

1. In the trunk: tow rope or chain, booster cables, road flares or warning lights, gas line antifreeze, batteries, first aid kit, extra clothing and footwear, (survival) blanket, non-perishable food items (granola bars, chocolate bars, juice), candle in a small tin and matches.

And don’t forget, when driving in winter:

STAY ALERT – SLOW DOWN - STAY IN CONTROL
AND PUT AMPLE ROOM BETWEEN YOU AND OTHERS

Source: Canada Safety Council, Ministry of Transportation Ontario