November 2, 2018
Winter is here and it is time to adjust how we move around the city. Winter conditions - such as snow, ice, freezes and thaws - can change travel conditions from ideal to dangerous very quickly. A patch of hidden ice or a drift of snow can turn a good day into a very bad one.
Be patient when winter conditions slow you down. Prepare for cold, wind, drifting snow, freezing rain and other surprises. Focus on getting to your destination safely, and watch for cyclists and pedestrians, even if it means extra travel time. Embrace the challenges of winter and follow these winter driving tips.
Prepare yourself:
- Plan your route and schedule
- Check the forecast to make sure it’s safe to drive
- Give yourself plenty of time
- Tell someone your route and anticipated arrival time
- Check for any road closures at edmonton.ca/trafficdisruptions
- Dress for the conditions
- Wear warm, comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear
- Wear or bring layers and extra clothing, including a toque, gloves and boots
- Drive for the conditions
- Maintain a safe following distance from vehicles and cyclists
- Expect icy patches, especially in intersections
- Manually turn your lights on
Prepare your vehicle:
- Install winter tires
- Use four matching tires with a tread depth of no less than 4 mm
- Check the air pressure frequently as it decreases in cold weather
- Inspect and maintain internal and external parts
- Complete this for your battery, belts, hoses, antifreeze, tires, brakes, heater, defroster, and windshield wipers
- Keep your fuel tank more than half full to reduce moisture problems and to ensure you don’t run out of fuel
- Keep a winter survival kit in your car
- Include non-perishable food, blankets, extra clothing, battery jumper cables, sand, a windshield scraper, a flashlight, and a candle and matches
- Keep your vehicle clear of snow and ice
- This includes your windows, lights, mirrors, hood, and roof
- Wait for your windows to defrost completely before you start driving
- Thoroughly scrape your front windshield, side and rear windows before driving - driving without a clear windshield is illegal
