Yes, driving conditions can be bad. And yes, it can be more difficult to get where you’re going.
But the B.C. Automobile Association is reminding people that many breakdowns, emergencies and related inconveniences can be avoided: You just need to prepare yourself and your vehicle, and drive according to the weather conditions.
BCAA’s Roadside Assistance technicians radvise drivers to take the following precautions:
Prepare your vehicle:
- Ensure tires are properly inflated. Use high-quality winter tires, all four the same.
- Test your battery and replace if necessary. Colder temperatures and using more electrical accessories will reduce a battery’s power output, making engines more difficult to start.
- Top up your windshield washer reservoir regularly with winter-grade washer fluid.
- Ensure lights are clean and working.
- Ensure your engine’s cooling system has the appropriate strength antifreeze.
Manage your journey and be prepared for an emergency:
- Check for the latest weather information to ensure conditions on your planned route are okay.
- Allow extra travel time. Let someone know your destination, planned route and expected time of arrival.
- If you’re planning on driving over snow-bound mountain passes, purchase correctly sized tire chains, and practice installing them at home, rather than at the roadside.
- Never exceed the speed limit recommended by the chain manufacturer. Watch for other cars around you when installing chains.
- If you’re a BCAA member, keep your membership card handy in case you need to call for roadside assistance.
What to carry with you:
-Warm clothes (ideally some reflective), blanket, good winter boots and gloves.
- Charged cellphone and phone charger.
- A windshield scraper, snow brush, shovel and spare container of winter-grade washer fluid.
- Emergency and first-aid kits and a supply of food and water for longer trips.
- Sunglasses. When it’s sunny, glare from icy or wet roads can be blinding.
How to drive in winter conditions:
- Slow down to help you stay in control.
- Completely clean all the snow from your vehicle’s windows, hood, roof and trunk.
- Ensure your windshield, windows and mirrors are free of frost and ice, and are de-fogged.
- Drive for the conditions, not the speed limit. Use your turn signals well in advance.
- Increase the distance between yourself and the car in front of you.
- Steer gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration, especially if you begin to skid on ice or snow. Gear down instead of braking, especially when driving down hills-
