Winter Driving Survival Kit

A message from the OPP
Detachment Commander’s Message on Winter Driving
Be Prepared, Be Safe!

Noelville OPP Detachment Commander Acting Staff Sergeant Mike Frew is reminding all motorists that winter is again upon us. Weather conditions can be variable and unpredictable, placing extra demands on your vehicle and your driving skills. Take the time to ensure you are well prepared for winter roads and always adjust your speed to existing conditions.

Stay alert, slow down and stay in control are 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.

Get your vehicle winter-ready with a maintenance check-up. Don’t wait for winter to set in to have your battery, belts and hoses, radiator, oil, lights, brakes, exhaust system, heater/defroster, wipers and ignition system checked.
Have tires and tire pressure checked. Tire air pressure decreases in colder weather. Depending on where you live and the amount of driving you do, snow tires can provide better traction.

It’s a good thing 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. Here are some recommended items:

* Ice scraper/snowbrush * Small tool kit
* Shovel * Extra Clothing and Footwear
* Sand or other Traction Aid * Blanket
* Tow Rope or Chain * Booster Cables
* Road Flares or Warning Lights * Gas Line Antifreeze
* Flashlight and Batteries * First Aid Kit
* Fire Extinguisher * Candle and a Small Tin Can
* Matches * Non-perishable Energy Foods like chocolate or granola bars, juice, instant coffee or tea, soup and
bottled water.

If you get stuck or stranded, don’t panic. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. Wait for help to arrive. If you are in an area with cell phone service and have a cell phone, call for help. Remember, dialing * OPP(star OPP) will connect you to the nearest Ontario Provincial Police Communications center.

Check weather and travel conditions before heading out. Don’t take chances if the weather is bad. Give yourself extra time for travel, or wait until conditions improve. Call the Ministry of Transportation’s information number on road conditions at 1-800-461-9523 or by internet: Road Conditions

Did You Know?

To do the job right, snowplows, salt and sand trucks must travel slower than regular traffic. Sight lines and visibility near a working snowplow are severely restricted by blowing snow, and passing can be dangerous. When you see the flashing blue lights of these vehicles, remain at a safe distance. Please be patient and stay well back while snow and ice control crews are at work.

Maintenance crews monitor weather and road conditions, day and night, seven days a week throughout the winter. Crew reports are updated four times daily, or more often as closures occur and as road conditions change. Despite the best efforts of snow and ice control crews, extreme weather may prevent the roads from being restored quickly.
Extreme weather may result in the closing of roads. The Police have the authority to close highways. Sometimes, the safest and best action is to close a highway until weather conditions improve enough to allow snow control operations to be carried out. Respect road closures and DO NOT attempt to drive on these roads until re-opened. Always obey emergency road closing signs/barriers and follow the directions of any police officer. It’s for your safety.
Remember, it is against the law to drive on a closed highway.

LET’S ALL ENJOY A SAFE WINTER SEASON!