Play it safe!

Make sure your vehicle is mechanically ready for the rigours of winter and keep your fuel tank sufficiently full — at least half a tank is recommended.

Make sure you have sufficient windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and that it is rated in the -40°C temperature range. Keep an extra jug in the vehicle.  Remember that the windshield washer fluid's temperature rating is for when it's in the jug.  Once you spray it on the windshield, the antifreeze component (usually alcohol: methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol) will evaporate once sprayed the winshield to leave rapidly-freezing water behind.  Also, alcohol will evaporate from the winshield washer tank (especially if not consumed over the previous summer) and could leave you with a tank of coloured water (with a bit of detergent).  Use your windshield washer regularly to continuously purge old fluid so you can keep topping it up with fresh fluid.

If you are in an area with cell phone service and have a cell phone, use it only when necessary. Even if you know where you're going, it is helpful to use traffic-enable GPS navigation (like Google Maps) so you can be routed to good roads.  When you need help, pull well off the road to make or receive a call. Remember, dialing 911 on your cell phone will connect you with the emergency services contact centre in the area. Please use 1-888-310-1122 to contact the OPP for non-emergencies.

If you experience car trouble on an Ontario provincial highway we recommend that you stay in your vehicle to avoid personal injury.

PLAY IT SAFE!

Severe winter driving conditions may make you nervous, uncomfortable, or fearful. Stay off the road unless your trip is absolutely necessary. Proper preparation and the right skills will help you face the challenge of winter driving.