Stay alert, slow down and stay in control

OPP News Release

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

Noelville OPP Detachment Commander Staff Sergeant Tim Foster would like to remind everyone that severe winter driving conditions may make you nervous, uncomfortable or fearful. Stay off the road unless your trip is absolutely necessary. Proper preparation and the right skills will help you face the challenges of winter driving.

Stay alert, slow down and stay in control – the three key elements to safe winter driving. Drive according to current road and weather conditions. Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Avoid situations where you may have to brake suddenly on a slippery surface.

Check weather and travel conditions before heading out. Don’t take chances if the weather is bad. Allow yourself extra time for travel, or wait until conditions improve.

If you are traveling a long distance, plan your route ahead of time. Let someone know of your destination and expected time of arrival.

Wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement while at the wheel. Keep warm clothing for getting out of your vehicle.

Clear snow and ice from all windows, lights, mirrors and the roof. After starting your vehicle, wait for the fog to clear from the interior of the windows so you will have good visibility all around.

Make sure your vehicle is mechanically ready for the rigors of winter and keep your gas tank sufficiently full – at least a half of a tank is recommended.

Make sure you have sufficient windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and that it is rated in the -40degrees Celsius temperature range. Keep an extra jug in the vehicle.

If you are in an area with cell phone service and have a cell phone, use it only when necessary. When you need help, pull well off of the road to make or receive a call.

Remember, dialing *OPP (*677) will connect you to the nearest Ontario Provincial Police communications centre.

Winter Driving Survival Kit

It’s a good idea to keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Having essential supplies can provide some comfort and safety for you and your passengers should you become stranded. Recommended items:

* ice scraper/snowbrush * fire extinguisher

* shovel * small too kit

* sand or other traction aid * extra clothing and footwear

* tow rope or chain * blanket

* booster cables * first aid kit

* road flares or warning lights * candle and a small tin can, matches

* gas line antifreeze * flashlight and batteries

* non-perishable energy foods – chocolate or granola bars, juice, instant coffee, tea, soup, bottled water

Alcohol IS NOT a good survival item and should never be part of your survival kit. And remember: NEVER drink and drive!

Did You Know?

That Section 74 of the Highway Traffic Act states that:

No person shall drive a motor vehicle upon a highway,

unless the windshield and the windows on either side of the compartment containing the steering wheel are in such a condition as to afford the driver a clear view to the front and side of the motor vehicle; and
unless the rear window is in such a condition as to afford the driver a clear view to the rear of the motor vehicle.
The fine for “No clear view to front, sides or rear” is $85 plus the appropriate court cost and victim surcharge.

Section 13(2) of the Highway Traffic Act states that:

Every number plate shall be kept free from dirt and obstruction and shall be affixed so that the entire number plate, including the numbers, is plainly visible at all times, and the view of the number plate shall not be obscured or obstructed by spare tires, bumper bars, any part of the vehicle, any attachments to the vehicle, or the load carried. This includes snow covering your licence plate.

The fine for “Obstruct plate”, “Dirty plate” or “Entire plate not plainly visible” is $85 plus the appropriate court cost and victim surcharge.

Section 31 states that:

Driving is a privilege – The purpose is to protect the public by ensuring that,

the privilege of driving on a highway is granted to, and retained by, only those persons who demonstrate that they are likely to drive safely; and
full driving privileges are granted to novice and probationary drivers only after they acquire experience and develop or improve safe driving skills in controlled conditions.
REMEMBER - Do not call the OPP for road conditions and road closures.

Call MTO at 1-800-268-4686 or visit the website at: www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/conditions/

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