Winter driving survival guide

THORNHILL, ON, Nov. 26 /CNW/ -Snow, slush, ice and cold weather can make driving tricky, but it doesn't have to be. Basic winter driving tips can help keep you safe on the road.

"Remember to slow down and stay alert," said Silvana Aceto, Media & PR Specialist, CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO). "Look ahead and pay attention to what is happening several cars ahead to avoid the worst."

"Clear all snow from your vehicle's hood, roof, windows and lights, so you can see and be seen. Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you to avoid braking suddenly on a slippery surface," added Aceto.

CAA SCO recommends the following winter driving tips:

• Install four matching winter tires.
• Plan your trip, check the road and weather conditions.
• Give yourself plenty of extra travel time.
• Remove all snow from your vehicle's hood, roof, windows and lights.
• Slow down and wear your seatbelt.
• Be prepared and carry a fully charged cell phone with you.
• Pack a winter survival kit.

Keep the following in your trunk: shovel, windshield washer fluid, booster cables, kitty litter and extra clothing and footwear.

Keep the following inside your vehicle: ice scraper, snow brush, blanket, flashlight and first aid kit. CAA's 24 hour roadside assistance is just a click away.

CAA members can access fast and reliable Road Service Online by visiting www.caasco.com/ers. Members can also check the status of their call and even cancel their request.

Meanwhile, CAA's iPhone Roadside App, can be downloaded for free through the iTunes App Store, and is another easy way to call for help.

CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club offering insurance, travel, automotive care and roadside services. There are more than 1.8 million CAA members in South Central Ontario and 5 million members in Canada. We're more than Roadside Assistance. We're Life-side Assistance. Visit www.caasco.com.

For further information:

Media contact: Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Specialist, CAA SCO,[email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] or Jeff LeMoine, Internal/External PR Specialist,[email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone].

Follow CAA on Twitter @caasco for regular updates on wait times and other news and information.