As we anticipate winter’s blustery arrival, CAA Manitoba is asking Manitobans to take the time now to prepare their vehicle and themselves.
“People often wait until the first snowfall before getting their vehicle ready to drive in winter conditions,” says Elisha Dacey, communications manager for CAA Manitoba. “Preparing now means your vehicle will be as safe as it can be when the cold weather comes,” says Dacey, “so we’ve prepared a Top 10 list to help you get started.”
CAA Manitoba has a list of several things you can do to prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving.
TOP 10 READY FOR WINTER DRIVING TIPS:
1. Install winter tires for better traction on cold and snowy roads – Members can call CAA before Nov. 15 to have our mobile tire service change them for you at home for a fee
2. Have your battery tested and replace it before it fails. CAA Manitoba will test Members’ batteries for as part of a service call.
3. Make sure you have an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, batteries, waterproof matches, candles, a small shovel, and kitty litter.
4. Have your brakes checked and serviced if needed.
5. Make sure where you park your vehicle is prepared – is your outdoor plug drawing power? Is your extension cord working with no missing prongs or exposed wires?
6. Have a family member or friend watch as you flick your vehicle and signal lights on and off to ensure they are working correctly.
7. Top up your windshield washer fluid and any other fluids that are getting low.
8. Get an oil change.
9. Remove worn wiper blades and replace them with new ones.
10. Ensure you have an ice scraper in your vehicle.
While it’s important to make sure your vehicle is ready to go, it’s also important for drivers and passengers to be prepared, in case of an emergency or if you are stranded.
Some additional ways to be prepared include:
· Have a cell phone battery bank and keep it on you, as well as a charging cable that connects your phone to your vehicle.
· Download and register for the CAA app and keep your CAA membership card in your wallet or vehicle so you always know how to contact CAA Manitoba if you are stranded.
· Consider adding extra mitts, hats and socks and footwear to your emergency kit.
· Check Manitoba 511.ca for road conditions and closures if you head out into a rural area.
· Always tell your loved ones where you plan to go and your planned route before you leave on a longer trip in your vehicle.
“At CAA Manitoba, Member safety is our number one priority,” says Dacey. “There’s still time to make sure you, your loved ones and your vehicle are ready to drive safely this winter.”
For more information about driving safely in winter conditions, please visit our Safe Winter Driving page at Home – CAA Manitoba
