OPP Report

NORTH WEST REGION OPP URGES DRIVERS TO PREPARE FOR WINTER

(THUNDER BAY, ON) - Winter has arrived (in) Northwestern Ontario and members of the North West Region Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to remind motorists that it is time to prepare for winter driving conditions, that can often be unpredictable.
By preparing your vehicle and adjusting your driving habits, you can reduce the risk of collisions.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter
Install winter tires: They improve traction and control in snow and icy conditions.
Check your battery: Cold weather can reduce your battery’s performance. Test it and replace it if needed.
Inspect wipers, lights and top-up fluids - including windshields washer.
Pack an emergency kit: Include items such as a flashlight, blanket, first aid supplies, snacks. Also make sure you have a snow brush/ice scraper and booster cables.
Winter Driving Tips
SLOW DOWN: Adjust your speed and behavior to the road conditions. Be patient and keep a safe distance behind working plows and other winter maintenance vehicles (e.g. trucks spreading salt or spraying anti-icing liquid) with flashing blue lights.
Increase following distance: Allow extra distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you to account for longer stopping distance on icy roads.
Clear snow and ice: Remove all snow and icy from your vehicle, including the roof, windows, lights and mirrors.
Avoid sudden maneuvers.
Always plan ahead: Monitor the weather conditions before heading out. Use resources like 511 Ontario for up-to-date road conditions and closures @ 511on.ca