Winter weather has arrived and everyone should be prepared and know what to do in extreme weather conditions. Here are some tips for when there's ice on sidewalks, when it snows and after a snowfall.
When there's ice or snow…
Clear the sidewalks around your home within ten hours of ice forming or the end of a snowfall.
When clearing snow from your driveway, pile the snow on the left side of your driveway (when looking at your home from the road). This will help reduce the amount of snow that is pushed back into the driveway when the snow plow passes by.
When it snows…
Don't park on the road or in the lane. Parked vehicles impede the ability of the snow plow to efficiently clear the roads and lanes.
After it has snowed…
Clear the drainage basins of snow and debris. If safe to do so, locate and clean drainage basin grates in the roadway around your home. This helps clear a path for the run-off of melting snow and helps prevent flooding of your property and that of your neighbours.
Be Prepared to Drive in Cold Weather
Prepare yourself for cold weather and dangerous driving conditions. Make sure you have the following items in your vehicle to help you in the case of an emergency:
- Jumper cables
- Shovel
- Traction pads or chains
- Ice scraper
- Towing cable
- Flares
- Blanket, warm gloves and boots
- First aid kit, candles and non-perishable foods such as candy bars
- Flashlight
- Cellular phone
Colder temperatures demand a lot of your vehicle, so it's important to prepare for the winter season. Visit a qualified technician to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition.
Slow down on icy or snowy roads
As the snow falls and the ground is covered with ice, it's important to remember a few safety measures that can help prevent a dangerous accident. When you're driving in the cold weather, remember these winter driving safety tips:
- Slow down.
- Accelerate gently and steer smoothly.
- Carefully test your braking and steering at a very slow speed.
- Allow extra space between you and other vehicles.
- Slow down before curves and corners.
- Go down icy hills in a low gear.
- Avoid passing.
- If your wheels lock, ease off the brakes then re-apply them to maintain steering control.
Taking these precautions when driving can help save lives and damages associated with accidents.