Are you ready for winter driving?

OPP News Release

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Noelville OPP Detachment Commander Staff Sergeant Tim Foster would like to inform the public that the official start of winter may be a couple more weeks away, but the season’s icy roads and blowing snow are already here.

When winter weather first hits, the number of traffic collisions doubles, mostly due to excessive speed and loss of control. “You need to be prepared and drive according to the road and weather conditions”, adds Staff Sgt Foster.

Here are some simple tips to remember when driving on winter roads:

Plan ahead – check weather and travel conditions before leaving. In poor weather, give yourself extra time or wait until conditions improve. It’s best to not take chances if the weather is bad.

Spacing – It takes longer to stop on slippery roads. Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you – twice what you would normally allow.

Lighting – Turn on your vehicle’s full lighting system in low light conditions such as blowing snow and whiteouts. Do not rely on daytime running lights.

Visibility – Top up your windshield fluid and clear the snow and ice from all windows, lights, mirrors and roof. Loose snow from your vehicle could also blow onto other vehicles and block other drivers’ vision.

Keeping a vehicle in proper working condition for winter driving is equally important:

- Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter by getting a maintenance check-up.

- Keep your gas tank at least half full. Engines burn more fuel in cold weather.

- Replace worn or damaged tires. Consider using winter tires that provide better traction in snow, slush and ice.

- If you get stranded, don’t panic. Turn off your car to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, and stay in your vehicle for safety and warmth and wait for help to arrive. Dialing * OPP (* 677) on your cell phone will connect you to the nearest OPP Detachment.

- Keep a winter survival kit in your car. (check MTO website for what to put in your kit)

For other safe winter driving tips visit the MTO website at:www.mto.gov.on.ca

Information on road conditions is also available by calling the ministry’s information line, toll-free at 1-800-268-4686 or 416-235-4686 in GTA.

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