Driving in a winter wonderland

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 frigid temperatures in the forecast for the next few days, it*s 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. Safe winter driving 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

Quebec http://www.quebec511.gouv.qc.ca/fr/index.asp
1-888-355-0511

*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, take public transportation, or call a cab.

Additionally, CAANEO recommends putting the following items in a storage container 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, plus extra clothing. For more information, please visit www.caaneo.ca.

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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