Monday, November 09, 2015
Ministry of Transportation
Be Prepared for Winter Driving
Ontario Reminding Drivers To Be Safe, Adjust Driving To Conditions
With winter on its way -- and snow already falling in some areas -- Ontario is asking drivers to help keep the roads safe.
Today, at a Home Hardware store in Milton, Minister of Transportation, Steven Del Duca, joined Halton MPP Indira Naidoo-Harris and road safety partners in offering some valuable winter safety tips to Ontario drivers:
- Prepare
- Get your vehicle a maintenance check-up before winter arrives.
- Always keep a survival kit in your vehicle.
- Consider installing four winter tires for better traction, braking and handling. Learn more about a winter tire insurance discount.
- Plan
- Choose your route ahead of time.
- Check your local weather forecast and road conditions by calling 511, or checking @511Ontario on Twitter before you head out.
- Consider delaying your trip if the weather is bad.
- Play it Safe
- Adjust your driving to suit current road and weather conditions.
- Slow down and stay in control.
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially snowplows clearing the road.
Ontario is committed to keeping the province's roads among the safest in North America. This year, drivers can expect improved road-clearing measures, including the addition of new maintenance equipment where needed and the increased application of anti-icing liquids. Ontario is also launching a Track My Plow pilot program for the areas of Simcoe and Owen Sound, giving users information on the whereabouts of maintenance equipment, with plans to expand.
Making it easier and safer to get to where you need to go is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.
Quick Facts:
- Prepare yourself for winter driving by checking your car battery, brakes, tires, wipers, engine and lights. Sub-zero climates can be tough on your vehicle.
- More than 1,000 snowplows and salt/sand spreaders are used to fight winter storms on provincial highways.
- Plowing begins as soon as two centimetres of snow are on the pavement.
Additional Resources:
Quotes:
"The Ontario government is committed to keeping our highways safe — in all seasons and all weather conditions. We are asking all drivers to be our safety partners this winter. Help us keep our roads collision-free by preparing your vehicle, by planning your trip ahead and by slowing down in winter conditions."
— Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation
"Ontario’s winters can be challenging for drivers. Preparing yourself, your vehicle and your travel plans ahead of time can help you get home safely to your loved ones."
— Indira Naidoo-Harris, MPP for Halton
"Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. You can help prevent collisions by adjusting your driving to winter conditions — slow down, leave space between you and other vehicles, and give yourself lots of time to reach your destination. And always be ready for road and weather conditions to change quickly. "
— Chief Supt. Chuck Cox, Commander, OPP Highway Safety Division
Media Contacts:
Patrick Searle
Minister’s Office
416-327-1815
Bob Nichols
Communications Branch
416-327-1158
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