Winter is coming! Tips to help you prepare for your commute this winter

CAA is urging drivers to gear up for tough driving conditions before the winter weather hits.

Environment Canada issued a special statement for the city of Toronto saying some areas could receive an additional 2 to 5 cm of snow by Monday evening. This could cause icy road conditions and result in a significant impact on the morning and afternoon commute.

“Most road collisions are not accidents and are preventable. Winter weather conditions can challenge even experienced drivers,” said Elliott Silverstein, CAA Manager of Government Relations, in a statement.

Here are some tips from CAA to help you prepare for unpredictable road conditions.

PREPPING YOUR VEHICLE FOR WINTER

Install a set of four matching winter tires for better traction
Pack a winter emergency kit that includes:

• Shovel
• Ice scrapper
• Booster cables
• Windshield washer fluid
• Extra clothing and footwear
• Bottled water
• Energy bars
• Blankets
• Flashlight
• First aid kit

STAYING SAFE BEHIND THE WHEEL DURING WINTER

Let a fellow driver into your lane; a simple ‘thank you’ wave can make all the difference on a stressful winter day
Always drive according to the weather and adjust your speed accordingly
Leave yourself extra time to get to your destination by planning ahead when poor weather is expected

CAA says you should also be aware of warning signs that your battery may need to be replaced. Some indicators are if you hear a grinding, clicking or buzzing when you turn the ignition on, your headlights dim when you are idling but brighten when you rev the engine and if your vehicle has previously stalled.