How to Stay Safe on Icy Roads this Winter

Have you heard the term “meteorological winter”? It’s the period of time between December 1st through the end of February and it’s the coldest three-month period of the year in the northern hemisphere. Down on the Southwest coast of Canada, here in Victoria BC, we enjoy our own micro-climate that keeps us warmer and drier than anywhere else in Canada!

With that said, we still experience wintry days and icy streets so it’s wise for us to prepare for the worst. And if we’re preparing, those living in less mild parts of Canada would do well to prepare too!

Many times, even if the weather doesn’t produce snow, the roads are still icy. Sometimes it’s obvious and sometimes it’s invisible, black ice.

Here are some road safety tips so that you can get where you’re going in one piece.

Pay attention, and remove any potential distractions from your eyesight or reach.
Ensure that your vehicle is prepared for winter driving. This includes winter tires, a snow scraper, and emergency items such as a flashlight, a shovel and jumper cables.
Drive smoothly and slowly. Don’t make any abrupt turns or stops, and leave extra time to get everywhere. It’s best to brake before making any turns in icy conditions.
Avoid tailgating. This one is pretty self-explanatory.
Learn how to control skids. Turn into the skid and accelerate!
Keep your lights on!
Keep cruise control off, in case of hydroplaning.
If your car has an anti-lock braking system, there’s no need to pump the brakes.

During the winter, vehicle collisions and accidents become increasingly common so take some time to practice and prepare yourself if need be. After all, you don’t want to become a statistic!

For more traffic safety tips and information, please visit Canada Safety Council’s website and become better prepared to stay safe on the road at all times!
-Article contributed by Sophie Wooding – Avid gardener and cyclist in Victoria, BC and Content Writer for Frontier.io