With snow soon to become a regular part of the forecast, CAA Saskatchewan is reminding drivers to be winter ready along with their vehicles.
Christine Niemczyk, Director of Communications & Public Relations with CAA provides some helpful winter driver tips.
"Please clear your vehicles of ice and snow. Driver visibility is a safety concern if your windows are covered in ice and snow. And traveling on Saskatchewan highways, a reminder to slow down to 60km per hour for first responders and that includes tow truck operators, law enforcement, paramedics, firefighters, and highway construction workers as well because they will be out there doing some maintenance."
Niemczyk adds that drivers should allow extra time to reach their destination and be sure to drive according to the current weather and road conditions. Drivers should also ensure that they use their signal lights well in advance to communicate their driving instructions with other road users.
In a press release sent out by CAA, drivers are also reminded to see and be seen. " In many vehicles, the daytime running lights (DRL) are always on. But this doesn’t mean that the rear lighting is on which results in ‘Phantom Vehicles’ that are virtually invisible from behind because their rear lights aren’t on. Turn your vehicle headlights and taillights on in harsh weather and in low visibility.
Roadside safety kits are helpful to have in vehicles for the driver and all passengers and items can be added to them including mitts, hats, footwear, a mobile phone and charger, non-perishable food, a shovel, and a snow brush as well as a booster cable.
Niemczyk says drivers must also ensure their vehicles are road ready.
"So at CAA we recommend winter tires and that is because the different rubber compound in winter tires allows for better traction and control. Check the vehicle's tire pressure often. Your battery is the lifeline of your vehicle, extreme weather weakens the battery so check it often and have it charged if necessary. Check your block heater and cord, you want to make sure the cord isn't frayed and is in good working condition."
Other helpful tips from CAA include watching for snow plows which are now equipped with amber flashing lights for increased visibility, along with checking vehicle fluids, brakes, and fuel. Fuel tanks should be kept at least half full to full as this helps to reduce moisture in the gas tank and adds weight to the vehicle.
CAA also recommends plugging in vehicles once the outside temperature falls below 15 degrees Celsius.
For more information and helpful tips click here.