OPP want motorists to be prepared for winter driving

OPP News Release

********************

NORTH BAY – Driving and travelling in the winter is far different than driving in the summer months. If you realize that, then you should also realize that it takes a plan to ensure that your trip is a safe one, whether you are driving across town or across the Province. Make a conscious effort to adjust your driving habits. It is not a hard thing to do, but it will cause you to have to remind yourself every time you venture out on our Northern Ontario streets, roads and highways in the winter. Carry a survival kit in your vehicle which can include a shovel, blanket, booster cables, flashlight, high energy foods, matches and a candle. For a description of a complete winter driving survival kit visit: www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/winterdrive/winterdrive.shtml

Allow extra time when travelling from point A to point B in the winter and drive according to the weather conditions and not according to your watch. If you become stranded on the highway in poor weather or as a result of poor road conditions it is always safer to remain with your vehicle than walking unprotected along a roadway. Even short distances in a snow storm by foot can be extremely dangerous.

 Carry a cell phone in case of an emergency

 Ensure your vehicle is mechanically safe and sound

 Put four (4) winter tires on your vehicle

 Make sure ALL your windows are clear of ice and now

 Make sure your heater, defroster and all your lights are working properly

 Keep your fuel tank at least half full at all times

And finally, plan your trip before heading out by visiting the Ministry of Transportation web site for road conditions at www.mto.gov.on.ca/englisg/traveller/conditions or by calling 1-800-268-4686.

********************