Safe Driving Tips for Winter Road Conditions
With snow in the immediate forecast, now’s the time for motorists to brush up on their winter driving skills.
Here are some important safety tips from CAA Saskatchewan to help drivers stay safe this winter:
 Check weather and travel conditions before heading out. If conditions are poor, delay travel if possible.
 Consider putting winter tires on your vehicle. Rubber in all-season tires start to lose elasticity and harden
at around 7 degrees Celsius, significantly reducing the tire’s ability to grip the road. Winter tires harden at
around -40 degrees Celsius, allowing them to maintain elasticity in much colder temperatures. (Courtesy
Automotive Industries Association of Canada, AIA Canada).
 Adjust your speed to weather and road conditions. Make sure you have a full tank of fuel.
 Slow down at intersections and pay special attention in school zones.
 Leave a safe distance between vehicles, use turn signals well in advance and allow extra room to stop.
 Avoid using cruise control on slippery roads.
 Plan your route in advance, allow extra time for travel, and let others know your route and ETA.
 Carry a fully charged cell phone and a cell phone car charger to call for help or Members can call CAA
Roadside Assistance.
 Wear warm clothing and footwear, no matter how far you are travelling.
 Pack an emergency vehicle kit with items such as non-perishable food, water, blankets, extra clothing,
flashlight, candle and lighter or matches and tin can, first aid supplies, booster cables, and a shovel. Visit
your local CAA Saskatchewan office to view one or two person survival kits.
 Take your vehicle to a CAA Car Care Centre or CAA approved auto repair facility to have it maintained
for winter.
 If you become stuck or stranded, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent temporary shelter and
makes it easier for rescuers to find you.
 Tie a brightly-coloured cloth to the antennae or place in a rolled up window to signal distress.
 Run the engine just long enough to remove the chill. To prevent carbon monoxide from leaking into the
vehicle, ensure the exhaust pipe is not clogged with snow or ice and check the exhaust system for leaks.
 For fresh air, open a window slightly on the side away from the wind.
 Occasional deep breathing and moving arms and legs rapidly will increase body circulation.
 Don’t over exert yourself by trying to push a vehicle or dig it out of snow.
Major roads are patrolled for stranded motorists during weather emergencies. Preparing in advance makes it
easier and safer for you to wait patiently for assistance. Free brochures on winter driving are available at any
of the 12 CAA Saskatchewan offices and at CAA Car Care Centres. Or visit http://www.caa.ca/working-foryou/safe-driving/winter-driving CAA Members can review information about getting ready for winter,
roadside assistance and battery service at http://caask.ca/automotive/roadside-assistance.
Earlier this month, CAA Saskatchewan launched its Cold Start Contest, a campaign to remind drivers about
the importance and benefits of preparing for the impending winter driving season. The online contest at
http://caask.ca/ runs until December 10th. Motorist have an opportunity to get a ‘hands-on’ refresher on core
winter driving safety tips and seasonal vehicle maintenance upkeep that can help increase safety in winter
conditions as well as save money and avoid trouble on the roadways.
CAA Saskatchewan Administration Offices
200 Albert Street N., Regina, SK S4R 5E2
Ph: 306-791-4314 Fax: 306-751-9516 www.caask.ca
-30CAA Saskatchewan serves more than 185,000 Members, offering benefits and services through its non-profit motor
club, and through its travel and insurance agencies, and auto maintenance and repair facilities. CAA also
advocates for motorists and travellers, supporting traffic safety programs and addressing related public policy
issues.
For more information, please contact:
Christine Niemczyk
Director, Corporate Communications and Public Relations
CAA Saskatchewan (306) 791-4327
CAA Saskatchewan Administration Offices
200 Albert Street N., Regina, SK S4R 5E2
Ph: 306-791-4314 Fax: 306-751-9516 www.caask.ca
November 8, 2012