Extreme cold temperatures have been wreaking havoc on vehicles, with battery failures and breakdowns among the most common issues reported. The severe weather is causing headaches for motorists, while also putting extra strain on those working to keep the roads clear and vehicles running.
The main issues reported include breakdowns, battery failures, and other related problems.
"Batteries get a little older and don’t start vehicles, and at temperatures like -34°C, it really takes a toll on many vehicles," said Richard Fillion of Fillion Towing and Recovery
He noted that most of the issues have been happening locally. "First thing in the morning, vehicles either aren’t plugged in, or they have low or older batteries."
While there are occasional calls to the highway, Fillion said they are less frequent.
An ongoing concern on the highway is drivers not slowing down when passing by emergency vehicles.
“It’s always an issue. Some days, things are fine, and everyone slows down. The next day, you really have to watch your back,” Fillion said. “Vehicles fly by, and nobody drives the speed limit anymore, which is normal, but for the most part, people don’t slow down. It makes it dangerous for us. We have to watch our backs to ensure nothing happens.”
Fillion said there have been a few close calls.
“We really appreciate it when people slow down. It makes our lives a little easier when we’re standing on the highway.”
Even small missteps can result in close calls. "Generally, it’s just one step back, but when the close calls happen, they’re very close."
“It’s stressful at times, but we stay alert because we’re aware of the risks. We’ve been on the highway a lot.”
Cold weather kept people indoors over the weekend, leading to a surge in calls for battery boosts Monday morning, with only a couple of calls to the highway.