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Transportation and Infrastructure

Winter Driving Survival Checklist

Be Prepared

Winter Driving - Survival Checklist

The Cold War is back. Are you and your vehicle prepared for treacherous winter driving conditions?

Don’t know? Don’t go.

Driving in winter conditions can be risky. Before heading out in unfavourable conditions ask yourself if the trip can be delayed. If you must go:

  • Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.
  • Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare
    yourself and your vehicle, and how to drive safely on
    winter roads.

Use winter tires

  • Use four matched winter tires. They provide better stopping power and traction in cold weather and snow. Check for wear before mounting.
  • Check tire pressure every few weeks.

Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped in case you become stranded:

Be sure to safely stow the following items:

  • Windshield scraper and snow brush
  • Extra windshield washer fluid
  • Flares and matches or lighter
  • Tire chains and gloves
  • First aid kit
  • Shovel and traction mat, sand or kitty litter
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Battery jumper cables
  • Spare tire, wheel wrench and jack
  • Extra clothing and footwear

Tire Winter Driving

If you are travelling outside of urban areas, ensure your emergency kit also contains:

  • Blanket or sleeping bag
  • Candles
  • High energy food
  • Empty can for melting snow
  • Tow rope

If you get stuck in a storm, don’t panic. Avoid overexertion and exposure. Stay in your vehicle,
and open your window slightly to make sure you have a supply of fresh air. Use a survival candle for heat (with appropriate care).

Use caution when running the engine with the window closed given potential exposure to exhaust fumes (exhaust systems can be blocked or damaged after a crash or loss-of-control situation). Set out a warning light or flares.

Keep winter
under surveillance

Don’t know?
DON'T GO

Download a printable
version of this brochure

Work Safe BC BCAA - Road Safety Foundation British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure BC Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association Information on the Winter Driving Safety Alliance

This information is intended to provide general information only. Nothing is intended to provide legal or professional advice or to be relied on in any dispute, claim, action, demand or proceeding. Participants in the Shift Into Winter campaign do not accept liability for any damage or injury resulting from reliance on the information in this publication. (10-2011)