We've enjoyed some nicer weather this fall, but as winter settles in across Winnipeg, it’s time to shift gears - literally and figuratively. Whether you're commuting to work, heading out for holiday shopping, or navigating busy streets, these seasonal safety tips will help you stay prepared, alert, and protected behind the wheel. Let’s warm up to safer driving together.
Here are our tips to help you stay safe:
- Scrape Your Windshield: Though it’s a pain, we hope you’ll agree that visibility is critically important to driving your vehicle. Yes, even when you’re running late, please be sure to take the time to scrape your windshield entirely so vision is not obscured on the roads.
- NEVER leave keys in an unattended vehicle: Opportunistic thieves often target vehicles left running with keys in the ignition. Even if you'll only be a minute, always take your keys with you.
- Be Prepared: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get stuck or stranded. Include items like warm gloves, booster cables, blankets, and safety pylons. These can help keep you safe and warm until help arrives.
- Drive for the Road Conditions: When roads are icy or snowy, slow down and leave extra space between you and other vehicles. Intersections can be especially slippery, so give yourself lots of time to stop.
- Slow Down and Move Over when Passing Emergency Vehicles: The Highway Traffic Act requires drivers to slow down and move over when emergency vehicles or tow trucks are pulled over on the side of the road. If the speed limit is less than 80 km/h, you must slow down to 40 km/h. If the speed limit is over 80 km/h, you must slow to 60 km/h. Failure to do so may result in hefty fines.
Winter driving in Winnipeg comes with its challenges, but with the right preparation and awareness, we can all help keep our roads safer. Let’s drive smart, stay alert, and make safety a priority this season.