A spokesperson for CAA says now is the time to make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter driving season.
Nadia Matos is Manager of External Communications with CAA. She says when daytime highs are a consistent seven degrees for one week, you should consider getting your winter tires installed.
"If you haven't already booked your appointment with your mechanic, do so, the snow is coming, we know it is," she says. "It's really kind of take action right now."
Matos encourages Manitobans to make the investment and install winter tires. She says compared to all season tires, winter tires can reduce your stopping distance by up to 25 per cent, or two car lengths. Matos explains that all season tires do not have the same grip as winter tires do. Winter tires contain silica, which allows them to grip in colder weather. She adds winter tires should be seen as an investment, noting it could be much cheaper to buy winter tires than to get your vehicle fixed after a fender bender which could have been avoided.
Matos suggests that when you get your mechanic to install your winter tires, you should also get your car battery tested. She notes even a fully charged battery will lose up to 30 per cent of its charge in temperatures below zero.
"It's really important to make sure that your battery will last for the winter months," she says. "The average car battery only lasts about three to four years because of all the electrical demands on it."
CAA is also reminding motorists to have an emergency kit in the vehicle. This should include water, non-perishable food, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, batteries, waterproof matches, candles, and cat litter to create traction under your tires. It is also encouraged to add extra mitts, hats, socks, and footwear to your emergency kit.
Matos says in addition to an emergency kit, it is also important to make sure you have enough windshield wiper fluid and appropriate shovels and brushes in your vehicle for the winter months.
CAA also recommends motorists ensure their gas tank does not drop below half full.
"That's mostly for safety reasons," Matos explains. "If you do end up somewhere where you need to get a tow, having a full tank of gas may keep you warm for quite a while."
Other winter readiness tips that CAA is suggesting, include having your brakes checked, testing your block heater and extension cord, ensuring both your interior and exterior lights are working properly, and inspecting your wiper blades.
CAA also recommends having a cell phone battery bank and charging cable in your vehicle. And finally, it is encouraged that you tell your loved ones where you plan to go and what your route is, before leaving on a longer trip.