The frigid temperatures aren’t likely to subside until the weekend, as highs of –24 C and –23 C are expected for the coming days.
With temperatures dipping down this cold, insurance expert from Heritage Insurance, Greg Marcyniuk says this is the perfect time to think about winter driving safety.
Marcyniuk says that 30 per cent of collisions that happen throughout the province occur during the winter.
“The biggest thing is to drive slowly, clear your vehicle of ice and snow before heading out, and inform someone before leaving or your route and when you plan on returning,” says Marcyniuk. “Also, bring a fully charged mobile phone and a charger.”
In addition, if your car does begin to slide or skid a rule of thumb is to remain calm, ease your foot off the gas, and slowly turn your wheels in the direction you want your vehicle to go.
When out on the road, if the road conditions begin to worsen or you do get stuck or stranded, Marcyniuk suggests pulling over in a safe location.
“First and foremost, stay in your vehicle. It’s the easiest and safest thing to do because it’s easy to become disoriented and it’s a good place to shelter.”
He also recommends running your engine intermittingly for about 10 minutes every hour you're stranded. This with help you stay warm and help preserve gas.
“Make sure to clear any snow away from your [exhaust] pipe and leave a little crack in your window so you don’t have any issues with carbon monoxide.”
Other ways to be seen while stuck are putting a reflective flag on the roof of your car and also keeping your interior lights on will help fellow motorists see you in the dark.
Marcyniuk concludes by saying that if you are stuck and you become cold, add layers of clothing or warp yourself up in a blanket to keep warm.
You can full a full list of Marcyniuk’s winter driving safety tips HERE.
Can listen to the full “Ask the Expert” interview between Marcyniuk and 800 CHAB’s Rob Carnie below:
Fri, Apr 19, 8:00 AM
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