Winter Driving
Winter driving on roads and highways can either be an exhilarating adventure or a frustrating, hazardous nightmare. The Brockville Police Service would like to offer you the following information to help make your winter driving a more safe, pleasant experience.
BEFORE HEADING OUT:
- Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster and heater are in top condition
- Check your antifreeze and windshield washer fluid to be ready for colder temperatures
- Carry an ice scraper, a broom for brushing snow off your car, and a shovel to dig yourself out if you get stuck
- It is also a good idea to carry water, food, warm blankets, candles and extra clothing, just in case the unthinkable happens
- Carry emergency devices such as flares, flashlights, pylons, fluorescent vest and a sign available at hardware stores and department stores
DRIVING TIPS:
- Buckle your seat belt!!!
- Get an early start to your trip and allow plenty of time to reach your destination
- Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm
- Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnoff to use a snow brush or scraper
- Slow down! A highway speed of 100 km/hr may be safe in dry conditions, but it’s an invitation for trouble on snow and ice
- Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead
- If your vehicle stalls, stay with your vehicle and keep your window slightly open for ventilation
- Don’t use a cellular phone while you are driving.
JUST REMEMBER – if you plan ahead and drive cautiously, you should have few problems getting through winter!