Don't Let Winter Take You By Surprise

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Nov 02, 2011, 01:33 ET

OTTAWA, Nov. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Winter driving can be risky, so be ready and be safe. As the cold weather is fast approaching, Transport Canada is pleased to launch the 2011-2012 winter driving campaign. Transport Canada is joined this year by the Canadian Automobile Association and Canadian Tire to promote safe winter driving.

As part of the campaign, Transport Canada encourages Canadians to prepare their vehicles for this coming winter season and to drive safely throughout the coming season.

Canada's winter roads can be a challenge for drivers, so give yourself every advantage by preparing yourself and your vehicle before setting out on Canadian roads this winter. Keep in mind that proper vehicle maintenance, coupled with safe driving techniques, will help get you through the winter safely.

You can reduce the chance of collision and help improve road safety by following these Transport Canada safety tips:

Install matching winter tires on all wheels of your vehicle. Winter tires outperform all-season tires when the temperature falls below 7°C, whether the roads are dry or covered in snow and/or ice.www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/tp-tp2823-menu-200.htm#h_8
Pack a winter driving emergency kit in your vehicle.www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/safevehicles-safetyfeatures-winterdriving-tips-700.htm
Check tire pressure at least once a month. www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/tp-tp2823-menu-200.htm#h_3
Have your battery, ignition system, lights and brakes tested.
Ensure your wipers are in good working condition.
Clear the snow and ice off your vehicle.
Give yourself extra distance to stop, as roads may be icy.
Check weather conditions before hitting the roads.
Dress properly — wear warm clothing.
Bring a cell phone for emergency purposes, but never use it while driving.

To find more information about winter driving safety tips, take a look at our winter driving brochure.

Our video gallery provides useful safety tips to prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving. Visit the winter driving video vignettes on our website to learn more winter driving safety tips at www.tc.gc.ca/winterdriving.

More information on winter driving can be found on the Canadian Automobile Association's website or by visiting the Rubber Association of Canada's website.

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