Safety tips for drivers as holiday storm approaches
Posted Dec 21, 2022 02:31:36 PM.
Winter officially starts today, and the cold season is making a grand entrance.
Environment Canada continues to issue a special weather statement with a major winter storm expected to start later this week and continue on into the holiday weekend.
Nadia Matos, Manager of External Communications for C.A.A. South Central Ontario, told CityNews 570 that the automobile service organization typically receives 4,000 calls for assistance on an average day between the areas of Kingston and Windsor, but during inclement weather, that number doubles and sometimes triples.
“If you don't have to go out, don't go out,” Matos advised. “Rearrange your travel plans so that you're safe indoors. However, it's the holiday season. We know a lot of people are going to be out driving visiting family or doing some last minute shopping.”
Matos suggested that those who do have to drive this weekend stay on main roads that are more likely to be plowed and salted.
Other tips for drivers suggested by Matos included topping off windshield washer fluid and replacing old windshield wipers before hitting the road, as well as having a fully charged phone and a backup charger.
One of the most important items to have in the car is an emergency kit, including warm blankets, a shovel and jumper cables.
She also added that while on the road, drivers should go slower, give plenty of space between them and the vehicle ahead, and avoid using cruise control.
