Winter driving in Ontario can be very dangerous. The roads can be slippery and wet, snowstorms can reduce visibility which can make the chance of having a vehicle collision increase.
All drivers should know the safety rules when driving in the winter months.
How should you prepare a vehicle for driving under winter conditions?
You should always keep your vehicle in good working condition, especially in the winter months. Make sure to check:
- Electrical System: Ensure that the vehicle’s charging system is properly checked, and the battery is replaced if it is weak.
- Ignition System: Evaluate the ignition system for damaged ignition wires or cracks in the distributor cap.
- Lights: Test all lights (headlights, parking lights, emergency flashers, directional lights, taillights and brake lights).
- Brakes: Make sure the braking system is working properly and replace the brake pads if needed.
- Tires: In the winter months use snow tires for better handling, control and stability.
- Exhaust System: Ensure that your exhaust system is correctly sealed and working properly. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow. A blocked pipe can force carbon monoxide back into the car interior.
- Windshield Wipers: Replace wipers if they are old and worn. Make sure that the wiper fluid is topped up.
- Heating/Cooling System: Make sure you have enough coolant in your vehicle, and that it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. See your vehicle owner’s manual for recommendations. Ask your mechanic to check all hoses for leaks.
How Can You Prepare for Winter Driving?
- Be Prepared: Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving-related tasks, and supplies you might need in an emergency, including:
- Snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper
- Sand or kitty litter, in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow
- Jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices (flares and emergency markers)
- Blankets
- Phone charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine.
- Keep your gas tank or vehicle charge full whenever possible.
Lithium ion batteries have reduced energy at lower temperatures. Additionally, most vehicle batteries will use battery power for self-heating in low temperatures. The battery drain due to heating can be minimized by keeping your electric vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures. A common way to do this: plug your vehicle in at night during the winter, keeping the battery temperature in its optimal ranges.
Plan Your Route
Make sure to check your local weather and traffic reports before travelling. If the weather is bad, it is best not to travel. If making a long road trip when winter weather is forecasted, consider leaving early or changing your departure to avoid being on the roads during the worst of the storm.
Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go—even if you use a GPS—and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time. On longer trips, plan enough time to stop to stretch, get something to eat, check your phone, and change drivers or rest if you feel drowsy.