Winter Driving: Prepare Before You Go

A quick trip to the store, a routine commute to a client, or a familiar drive on roads you have travelled hundreds of times before can feel like nothing out of the ordinary. However, winter conditions can change quickly, and an unexpected delay or roadside breakdown can leave drivers stranded and exposed to freezing temperatures. What begins as a manageable snowfall can quickly develop into whiteout conditions, icy roads, or hazardous driving conditions, making preparation an important part of every winter journey.

Before You Leave

Before heading out, check the weather forecast, alerts, and road conditions, and be prepared to delay your trip if conditions are unsafe. Take a few minutes to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter by checking the battery, lights and wipers, top up the washer fluid with winter-grade fluid; and ensure your vehicle has winter tires appropriate for your driving conditions. Transport Canada recommends winter tires on all four wheels when driving in cold, snowy, or icy conditions.

Before setting off, clear snow and ice completely from your windows, mirrors, lights, and roof so that you have a clear view and snow does not fall onto other vehicles while you are driving. Make sure you have enough fuel or battery charge to complete your trip, with some extra capacity in case an unexpected delay leaves you on the road longer than planned.

Pack for the Unexpected

Even a short journey can become a long one if weather or road conditions deteriorate, so it is important to keep a well-stocked winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Your kit should include warm clothing, a blanket, water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, first aid supplies, and a phone charger or power bank. It is also a good idea to carry winter tools such as a shovel, ice scraper, and traction aid, along with a warning light, reflective safety triangles, or another warning device to help make your vehicle visible if you become stranded.

If You Become Stranded

If your vehicle becomes stranded in severe winter weather, stay inside unless remaining in the vehicle puts you in immediate danger. Leaving your vehicle can increase the risk of becoming lost or exposed to the cold, particularly during a snowstorm or when visibility is poor. Turn on your hazard lights or other warning lights and call for assistance. If there is an emergency, such as an injury or immediate danger, call 911. For a non-emergency breakdown, contact your roadside assistance provider from a safe location. While you wait for help, use blankets and warm clothing to help maintain your body temperature and watch for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, difficulty speaking, drowsiness, or loss of coordination. If you suspect that someone is experiencing hypothermia, treat it as a medical emergency and call 911.

If you need to run the engine for warmth, do so sparingly. CCOHS recommends running the vehicle for about 10 minutes every hour. Before starting the engine, make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow or other obstructions, as a blocked exhaust can cause carbon monoxide to build up inside the vehicle. CCOHS also recommends opening a window slightly on the side sheltered from the wind to allow fresh air into the vehicle. Never run the engine if the exhaust pipe is blocked.

Before your next commute or business trip, take a few minutes to check your vehicle, review the weather and road conditions, and refresh your emergency kit. A little preparation can make a significant difference if winter conditions change unexpectedly.