BE PREPARED FOR WHATEVER THE PRAIRIES THROW AT YOU
No matter how careful you are, winter on the Prairies can throw you into some unpredictable situations. So you need to be prepared. Your Prairie Toyota dealers are committed to providing tips to keep you safe on the roads this winter.
A Well-Oiled Machine
Your first line of defence against emergencies is keeping your Toyota in its best possible condition by having it regularly serviced by a Certified Toyota Technician. Bring it in to your local Prairie Toyota dealer and let us help you stay ready for whatever winter throws at you.
Winter Tires for Winter Weather
Prairie winters call for winter tires. They improve traction, braking, and handling in snow, ice, and slush. Get your tires installed before the beginning of the regular snow season and have them checked to determine whether or not they need to be replaced. Never mix tires of different tread pattern, size, and construction. And check your tire pressure throughout the winter, as it decreases in cold temperatures.
Winter Emergency Kit
Keep a well-stocked emergency supply kit in your vehicle. This should include: non-perishable food, water, extra clothing/shoes, first-aid kit, small shovel, scraper, snowbrush, candle, matches, wind–up flashlight, whistle, and roadmaps. Also recommended are: sand, salt, or non-clumping cat litter, antifreeze/windshield washer fluid, tow rope, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, warning light or road flares, and a cellphone charger.
Be Prepared
Before you hit the highway, check the weather and road conditions.
Reschedule your travel if necessary. Stick to major roads and give
yourself plenty of time. Be certain to let others know your route and
expected arrival time. And if you feel the conditions are not safe,
get off the road. Pull into a rest stop or a protected area off the
highway. If you cannot do this, park well off the road and put
on your emergency blinkers.
Top Up Your Tank
Keep your fuel tank as full as possible — make certain it is at least half-full. If you get stranded in your car, your engine will be your only source of heat and power. Also, moisture will fill the tank during warmer temperatures and then condense during colder periods, which can lead to frozen fuel lines and erosion of the tank.
Respect the Plow
Stay well behind any plows on the road. To clear the roads properly,
snow plows and sand and salt trucks need to go a lot slower than
regular traffic. Also, visibility is reduced by blowing snow. And never
pass a working snow plow — especially on the righthand side!
Passing is extremely dangerous and can result in a severe and
potentially fatal collision.
Slow, Steady, and Safe
When driving on snow and ice, slow and steady wins the race! Accelerate and brake slowly and avoid sudden moves. Space yourself well — remain at least two seconds behind other vehicles.
If you find yourself skidding, steer in the direction you want to go and
don’t over-brake or over-steer. And don’t use cruise control, because
if you are hydroplaning or skidding it will cause your vehicle to accelerate, reducing your reaction time.
Maximum Visibility
In poor driving conditions, you need to keep your line of sight as
clear as possible. Clear all snow and ice off your windows,
mirrors, lights, and roof. Keep your windshield washer fluid topped
up with fluid designed for -40°C. Replace your wipers with winter
wipers to keep your windshield clear of snow and ice. And keep your
lights on in poor conditions so you can see where you’re going and
others can see where you are.
