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Follow these tips to ensure you and your vehicle stay safe on winter roads.
Prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving, and drive for the conditions.
Before you set out on a winter journey, plan for the conditions and prepare accordingly.
Is it safe to go?
Find up-to-date, province-wide information at 511 Alberta.
Travel during daylight hours whenever possible. Tell someone your route and anticipated arrival time.
Get winter driving training to learn how to brake safely and how to get out of a skid.
Keep at least 4 seconds distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
Dress in layers so you can stay warm in case you have car trouble or have to leave your vehicle.
If you get stuck or stranded, stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. Always carry a charged cell phone to call for assistance.
Winter weather can be hard on your vehicle and its engine. Follow these tips to ensure your ride is up to the challenge.
Use four matching winter tires that bear the mountain/snowflake winter tire symbol and have tread no less than 4 mm — even when driving a 4x4 vehicle. Check the air pressure in your tires frequently, as it decreases in cold weather.
Learn more about winter tires
Have your battery, belts, hoses, antifreeze, tires, brakes, heater, defroster and windshield wipers inspected before winter sets in.
Consider changing your wiper blades to winter blades, which are heavier and can push snow more easily.
Non-perishable food
Blankets, extra clothing and footwear
Fuel line antifreeze
Battery jumper cables
Windshield scraper and snowbrush
Shovel and traction mat, sand or kitty litter
Candle and matches
Flashlight and extra batteries
When you start your vehicle, wait for the windows to defrost completely before driving.
Keep an extra jug in your vehicle.
The extra volume can help reduce moisture problems, and is important if you’re ever stranded.
In winter, driving conditions can change rapidly from clear roads and blue skies to white-out conditions and ice covered roads. Don’t take chances.
Driving on snow and ice can be unpredictable. If you’re driving too fast, your vehicle may fishtail, spin or skid off the road at a corner.
The posted speed is the maximum speed under ideal conditions. In winter, it is safer to drive slower than the posted speed.
Accelerate gently to maintain traction. When stopping, begin slowing down well in advance and apply the brakes gently.
Avoid quick movements that could put your vehicle into a spin. Anticipate turns, stops and lane changes well before they occur. Steer smoothly and gradually to avoid skidding.
Pavement is most slippery when it first starts to snow.
Slow down for on and off ramps, overpasses, shady spots, and bridge decks where black ice might form.
Clear winter roads may still have sand on them. Although sand improves traction on snow and ice, on dry roads it acts like tiny ball bearings between your tires and the road. Brake early.
Following too closely is the number one cause of collisions in Edmonton. As driving conditions deteriorate, leave more space between vehicles.
Be sure your windshield and side windows are clean and free from frost. Have winter windshield washer fluid in the tank and make sure your wiper blades are in good shape.
Driving towards the sunrise or sunset can be blinding. Keep sunglasses in your vehicle.
Always drive with your headlights on. Use low beam headlights only during a snowstorm or in fog.
If you can’t see well enough to drive, pull as far off the road as you safely can. Use the vehicle’s hazard lights to warn other drivers of your presence.
Be extremely cautious when approaching snow plows, sanding trucks and other road maintenance equipment. Maintain a safe following distance and be patient. Visibility could be limited behind snow removal equipment.
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