If you get stuck, run out of gas, or your vehicle breaks down during winter, are you prepared? To help keep you safe during your commute in cold weather, we’ve prepared this checklist.
Checklist for Commuting in Cold Weather
- Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle (especially windows and mirrors)
- Check tire pressure
- Check wiper blades
- Check lights (especially if driving at night or with low visibility)
- Weight in trunk or bed if a rear-wheel drive
- Have a kit in your vehicle that includes:
- Blanket
- Hat and gloves
- Heat source
- Non-perishable food
- Tow rope
- Booster cables
- Flashlight
- Shovel
- Grit, sand, or kitty litter
- Ice scraper
- Snow brush
- Windshield washer fluid (winter-grade)
- Cellphone charger and battery
- Wear weather appropriate clothing and shoes (or keep a set in your vehicle)
- Leave a lot of space between you and the car in front
- Take it slow and steady
Before winter hits, we recommend getting your vehicle checked over. This can catch issues before they leave you stranded on a cold winter night. It’s especially important to check your heating and defrost, wiper blades, brakes, lights, and tires. You should also refill your fluids with a winter-grade version.
You should also consider installing winter tires. These tires are proven to perform better in colder temperatures and snow. They’ll improve your stopping time and handling during the winter months. This is due to the tire material and tread. Winter tires are required during certain months in BC and other provinces, so If you drive there it may be necessary for you to put them on to avoid a ticket.