CAA asks: Are you and your vehicle winter ready?

It’s that time of year. The leaves have fallen, and so has the outdoor temperature. Time to bundle up and think about getting ourselves and our vehicles winter ready.

CAA offers important reminders to help keep us safe while driving this winter.

Drivers: Winter Ready Check List

• Check weather and road conditions before you travel: allow extra time to reach your destination safely. Be prepared to reduce your speed and drive with caution.

• Slow to 60 km/h on Saskatchewan highways: for first responders including tow truck operators, law enforcement, paramedics, firefighters and highway construction workers. 

• Signal lights: every vehicle has them. Use them in advance to communicate your driving intentions with other road users.  

• See and be seen: in many vehicles, the daytime running lights (DRL) are always on. But this doesn’t mean 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 kit: pack extra winter gear including mitts, toques and footwear. Take along a mobile phone with charger (for emergency use only), non-perishable food, water, a shovel, window ice scraper, snow brush and booster cables. Remember, roadside safety kits are available at all CAA Saskatchewan Stores.

• Watch for snowplows: trucks now have amber flashing lights for increased visibility. Remember to slow down, stay back, and stay safe.

• Check the Highway Hotline: for updates on winter road conditions.

For vehicle winter inspection, visit facility that is part of CAA’s Approved Auto Repair Services (AARS) network across the province.

CAA Roadside Assistance is available 24/7, 365 days a year. CAA Members can request online, call 1-800-222-4357 or download the CAA Mobile App.

Vehicles: Winter Ready Check List

• Winter tires: a definite recommendation by CAA. The different rubber compound in winter tires allows for better traction and control. When choosing winter tires, consider the tread design, type of rubber, size, and conditions of use.

• Check your vehicle’s tire pressure: the right pressure is important for traction and fuel efficiency. Check the air pressure regularly. Improper inflation can not only be dangerous but can also cause increased tire wear resulting in added costs for replacement tires.

• Battery the battery is your vehicle’s lifeline. Extreme weather weakens the battery so check it often and have it charged if necessary.

• Block heater and cord: make sure the cord is not frayed and is in good working condition. Always plug in when the temperature falls below -15 C.

• Check vehicle fluids: this includes antifreeze, brake fluid and the window washer fluid, which are all vital to safe winter travel.

• Defrost your windows before you drive: take the time to remove ice and snow from your vehicle.

• Brakes: have your brakes inspected thoroughly and service them if necessary. This will help with better braking power especially on icy, snow-covered roads.

• Fuel: keep a full tank or at minimum a half tank of fuel. This will help reduce moisture in the gas tank plus it adds weight to your vehicle.