Winter Driving
Winter driving in Manitoba tests the best of drivers. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, check out these helpful hints:

Everything you wanted to know about winter driving:

Make A Good Start
Cold & Extreme Cold
Heavy Snowfall
Ice & Slippery Roads
Weather Hazards
Lock Outs/Frozen Door Locks

Make a Good Start

• plug in your vehicle when the temperature drops below -18 C as that's when batteries lose 50% of their starting power
• ensure your block heater is working & the plug is in tight
• inspect all cords to make sure they are not damaged
• use a timer to help conserve electricity
• use a battery blanket on your car
• have your battery tested
• park so the engine isn't facing into the wind

Cold & Extreme Cold

• keep your gas tank at least half full to lessen the chance of gas line freeze-ups
• never leave your car running with the keys in the ignition as it tempts thieves
• never run your vehicle in an enclosed area as it risks carbon monoxide poisoning
• ensure your thermostat works as a faulty thermostat's the most common cause of poor heat
• open your window a crack to help circulate warm air

Heavy Snowfall

• remove snow and ice from headlights, tail lights and windows so people can spot you
• clear any snow blocking the exhaust pipe to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
• carry some sand or traction mats for under the drive wheels in case you get stuck
• run your car back and forth over the same tracks when parking to help reduce chances of getting stuck

Ice & Slippery Roads

• ice on the road is twice as slippery at -1C than -18C
• maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you
• slow down to allow for more controlled braking
• for ABS (anti-lock) brakes, maintain steady pressure on the brake
• for regular brakes, pump the brakes gently
• have your brakes inspected annually
• check your brake fluid level regularly

Weather Hazard Tips

• check the local weather conditions before leaving
• if conditions worsen while en-route, pull over & wait for conditions to improve
• keep a survival kit in your vehicle
• let someone know your route and expected arrival time
• keep to the main roads
• carry a cell phone for emergencies

Lock-outs/Frozen Door Locks

• keep an extra key in your purse/wallet and a spare key at home
• keep some lock de-icer handy in your coat or purse - not in the car
• put tape over the door locks to prevent freezing when washing your car
• wipe dry the rubber seals around your doors and trunk so they don't freeze shut
• make it a habit to double-check for your keys before leaving the vehicle