CAA is reminding drivers that road conditions can get bad quickly this time of year.
Spokesperson Gary Howard says drivers need to be prepared before they hit the roads.
“We call it the great Canadian memory loss. It seems the first couple snowfalls every year, Canadians forget how to drive in the winter.”
He says some tips include putting winter tires on your vehicle, carrying a fully charged cell phone and letting others know where you’re headed.
CAA Atlantic encourages drivers to remember the following tips while on the road this winter:
· Let others know your itinerary and route before you travel.
· Put winter tires on your vehicle, regardless of the anticipated snow accumulation in your region.
· Carry a fully charged cell phone (and charger) to call a friend or roadside assistance if needed.
· Take your car to your local service technician for a maintenance check with the change of season. This could include having your battery inspected for wear before the start of winter, and ensuring you have the ideal grade of oil for optimal winter use.
· In the event of issues with your vehicle, do not leave it on the side of the road.
Drivers are also encouraged to be prepared by keeping a winter driving kit in their vehicles, with items such as:
· Warm winter gloves, hats and boots
· Blanket or extra clothing
· Bad of sand or kitty litter
· Small shovel
· Ice scraper and/or snow brush
· Water and snacks
· Extra windshield washer fluid
· First aid kit
· Hard copy of a local map (not just a GPS device)
· Flashlight and batteries
· Flares and waterproof matches
