REGINA — It’s that time of year in Saskatchewan when we adjust our vocabulary to winter speak. Those all too familiar words such as windchill, frostbite, snow, blowing snow, extreme cold, blizzard, frigid, ice, slush, shovel, scarf, toque, mittens, and boots become part of our everyday language.
To help keep everyone and their vehicles safe and warm, CAA recommends acting now to get ourselves as drivers, and our vehicles ready for 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.
- Clear your vehicles of ice and snow. Driver visibility is a safety concern if windows are covered in ice and snow.
- 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 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 kit: Pack extra winter gear including mitts, toques, and footwear for all passengers. Take a mobile phone with a 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 or at caask.ca/shop. If you become stranded, ensure your vehicle is parked safely, and stay in your vehicle for temporary shelter until help arrives.
- Watch for snowplows: Trucks 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.
- Learn Winter Road Terminology: To better understand winter driving terms such as Visibility Conditions, Primary Conditions, and Secondary Conditions.
- Allow pedestrians extra time to cross the roads safely. Drive with caution in school zones, crosswalks, and intersections for pedestrians crossing the street. Please allow time for them to cross safely as roads will become covered with snow and ice making walking difficult for all pedestrians, especially children and seniors.
- For vehicle winter inspection, visit any 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, download the CAA Mobile App., or call 1-800-222-4357.
Vehicles: Winter Ready Check List
- Winter tires: A definite recommendation by CAA. The different rubber compounds in winter tires allow 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. Review your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
- Battery: The battery is your vehicle’s lifeline. Extreme weather weakens the battery so check it often and have it charged if necessary. For advice on battery care, contact the experts at CAA Battery Depot.
- 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 your vehicle fluids: This includes antifreeze, brake fluid, and window washer fluid which are all vital to safe winter travel.
- 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.
Learn more at caask.ca/safety.
Read informative, helpful blogs on winter battery maintenance, winter tires, and is your home winter ready.
