Are you ready to enter ‘winter mode’?
Christine Niemczyk, director of corporate communications & public relations with CAA Saskatchewan, has some tips for Saskatchewan drivers to make sure their vehicles are ready for the change in season.
“Check everything from – and we do with CAA recommend – winter tires, check the oil, the battery,” she said.
“We know in Saskatchewan with the cold weather, a typical lifespan for our batteries is about three to five years.”
She added that people should be plugging in their vehicle when the forecast hits minus 15 degrees Celsius.
When you’re heading out on the road, you should have a roadside safety kit in case you find yourself stranded. “It’s something that you can keep in your vehicle year-round,” she explained.
She said they have kits available at CAA Saskatchewan stores, but you can also make your own kit.
“What we ask you to put in is non-perishable food, a shovel, a window ice scraper, snow brush, booster cables, and pack extra gear such as mitts, toques, parkas, footwear, and blankets for all passengers.”
“You might think that’s a lot, but just think to yourself, if you do find yourself stranded and you’re waiting for help to come, what would I need in that vehicle to keep the driver and the passengers safe and warm?”
She added that you should stay with your vehicle until help arrives, and that it’s important for you to have information on where you are, including the route and highway. “Also in the winter, best to stay on primary roads, because those are the ones that are typically cleaned.”
Before setting out, it’s also a good idea to check the Highway Hotline for information on road hazards and conditions.
Find more tips for driving in winter on CAA’s website here.