It’s time to get ready for winter driving: OPP, CAA

A messy rain and snow mix could arrive in Waterloo Region Thursday, nothing we’ll have to shovel, but enough to remind us that winter is coming.

The snowy season arrives on Saturday, Dec. 21 and services around the province are taking note.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) are reminding drivers to get winter ready, before it’s snowy, slushy and slippery out there. This includes getting those winter tires on, checking the car battery, and packing emergency car kits for cold weather.

OPP are also stressing the importance of changing driving habits when it comes to winter road conditions.

A reminder from officials: It is illegal to pass snowplows on Highway 401, an amendment made to the Highway Traffic Act last year.

“Not only is passing these plows illegal, but it is also incredibly dangerous,” says OPP Sergeant Ted Dongelmans.

“Offenders may face a fine ranging from $150 to $1,000 if found passing a snowplow while they are clearing the roads.”

The full list of winter driving tips include:

• Test your car battery.
• Pack a fully stocked emergency car kit. The kit should include a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices (e.g., flares, reflective vests/strips), a first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, non-perishable food and water, and a phone charger.
• Be sure to always keep an ice scraper, small shovel, and snow brush handy in your car.
• Service your vehicle.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times.
• Check your lighting system.

Road and traffic conditions are updated every ten minutes on 570 NewsRadio.