Get ready for winter driving

OAKVILLE, ON, Nov. 23, 2015 /CNW/ - Waking up to a dead battery or winding up stuck in a snow bank are all too familiar sights during the winter months in Ontario. It won't be long before the first major snowfall or cold snap of the season turns your daily ride to the office into a treacherous white-knuckle drive.

Today, CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Toronto Police Service and Skid Control School are reminding drivers to get ready for unpredictable weather conditions with a change in mindset and technique.

"The winter weather can be hard on your vehicle. Take the time to make sure you and your car are winter ready. Test your battery, check your brakes, replace worn windshield wipers and pack an emergency kit before the snow arrives," said Teresa Di Felice, Director Government and Community Relations, CAA SCO.

"We often see an increase in collisions in poor weather and most of them are preventable. It is crucial that motorists drive defensively and responsibly, according to the road and weather conditions. Plan ahead before you leave, expect it to take extra time to reach your destination and don't be in a rush. Leave extra space between vehicles and stay alert at all times. We all have a part to play in road safety, please do your part," said Superintendent Alison Jevons, ‎Director of Operations and Support, Highway Safety Division, OPP.

"The need to be aware and alert at all times on any road even in the most routine circumstances is a key component to moving through traffic safely. Following these precautions can help reduce your chances of being involved in a collision while driving in any weather conditions, especially the winter," said Superintendent Gord Jones, Toronto Police Traffic Services.

Remember to keep the following items in your vehicle: ice scraper and snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, booster cables, flashlight and extra batteries, blankets, extra clothing and footwear, first aid kit, snacks, smart phone and charger.

For more helpful winter driving tips, visit www.drivinginwinter.ca.

Meanwhile, CAA SCO is reminding members to download the CAA App and use CAA Service Tracker to track the status and estimated time of arrival of their road service call.

For over a hundred years, CAA has been helping Canadians stay mobile, safe and protected. CAA South Central Ontario is one of nine auto clubs across Canada providing roadside assistance, travel, insurance services and member savings for our 2 million members.

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario

Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Consultant, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] or Jeff LeMoine, Communications Consultant, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone].