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Driving safe in a winter wonderland

CAA News Release ******************** OTTAWA - With both the holidays and winter weather in full swing, CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) would like to remind travelers to be cautious on snowy and icy roads this festive season.
CAA News Release

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OTTAWA - With both the holidays and winter weather in full swing, CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO) would like to remind travelers to be cautious on snowy and icy roads this festive season.

*With snow and freezing rain in the forecast for the next few days, its important for all motorists to remember that safety never takes a holiday,* said Korey Kennedy, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for CAANEO. *CAA North & East Ontario would like to remind drivers that they can drastically reduce the chance of being involved in a collision if they slow down and leave more space between vehicles.

Winter driving can be safe, but it starts with the driver.*

Here are a few winter driving tips for motorists this holiday season:

*Clear off all snow and ice from windows.

*Be prepared! Make sure your wipers are clear and you have sufficient washer fluid.

*If the weather is bad, reconsider if you really need to be on the road. Please consider getting the groceries or going shopping when the roads are clear.

*For road conditions, please call:

Ontario http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/conditions/
1-800-268-4686

*Be extra cautious for black ice, and leave enough braking room between you and the vehicle in front of you.

*Always travel with a fully charged cell phone, and plan your route in advance.

*Never drink and drive. If you celebrate the season with a few *cups of good cheer*, make sure you have a designated driver, or call a cab.

Additionally, CAANEO recommends putting the following items in a "survival kit" and leaving it in your car all year: flashlight, blankets, shovel, winter gloves, booster cables, scraper and brush with a long handle, sand or kitty litter, first aid kit, pencil and paper (pens can freeze), emergency food pack, matches, a survival candle in a deep can, and extra clothing.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that the holiday season remains a joyous celebration and not an unfortunate anniversary.

For over 100 years, the Canadian Automobile Association has provided Travel, Emergency Road Services, Insurance, and Advocacy for its Members. CAA North & East Ontario continues to be the leading membership organization by recognizing and promoting its heritage and integrity in the community, while maximizing Members* value.

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