Winter is in full swing, and as we head into the busy holiday season, we want to take the opportunity to discuss winter driving tips in extreme weather. The roads can be unpredictable, especially in Alberta, but understanding how to properly navigate them can help ensure you arrive at your destination safe and sound.
“Between December 22 and 24, crash rates see a steep increase of 102 per cent. Crash rates climb sharply, with December 24th being the riskiest day of the week.” –The Weather Network
Keep these tips in mind:
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
- Make sure your tires have good tread. Consider winter tires for better grip.
- Use windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures. Refill as needed!
- Ensure your battery, brakes, and wipers are in good condition.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
2. Slow Down
Reducing your speed is the one of the best ways to prevent winter accidents. Therefore, adjust your speed to the road conditions as ice and snow reduce traction. Allow yourself ample time to come to a stop.
Additionally, while cruise control is helpful, it’s best to avoid using it when roads are slippery.
3. Increase Following Distance
Maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you. This gives you room to brake gently without skidding. Be sure to avoid sudden braking, accelerating, or steering.
“More than 37 per cent of car accidents in Canada happen in winter, making it the busiest season for fender benders.” –The Weather Network
4. Turn on Your Lights
Using your lights during a snowstorm not only helps you to better see your path ahead, but makes your vehicle more visible to others.
5. Brake and Accelerate Gently
Be sure to gently use your brakes. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), press the brake firmly and allow the system to work. If you don’t have ABS, pump the brakes lightly.
6. Check Weather and Road Conditions
If conditions are extremely icy or visibility is low, it may be safer to stay home. Always check the road conditions, and weather before driving in the winter, especially if you are planning on travelling long distances.
7. Be Prepared
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include items such as gloves, hats, boots, a blanket, first aid kit, booster cables, a small shovel, a flashlight, and anything else that can help keep you safe.
Drive Safe with DF Safety
DF Safety offers an online course, Defensive Driving: Extreme Winter Driving with Skid Control/Recovery. This course includes everything experienced and inexperienced employees need to know to drive safely and incident free in winter.
This comprehensive course covers the basics of winter driving found in other courses, as well as advanced skid recovery techniques for oversteer, understeer and straight-line skids. This is critical information for employees driving your vehicles in winter! Correct steering, acceleration and braking techniques to optimize traction are addressed in detail.
Wishing everyone safe travels this holiday season! By staying cautious and aware, we can help ensure that all families enjoy their time together.