Winter tips
By Anonymous · 2026-08-28
Winter Driving & Vehicle Safety
Prioritize Winter Tires: Always opt for dedicated winter tires rather than all-season tires. All-season tires lack the necessary grip in cold weather, which can cause your vehicle to drift or slide during turns. When stopping on slippery roads, apply your brakes gently to maintain control.
Watch for Black Ice: Be extremely cautious of black ice, particularly on downhill slopes, as it severely reduces traction and can make stopping nearly impossible.
Keep a Snow Emergency Kit: Keep flattened cardboard boxes or thick newspapers in your vehicle. If you get stuck in the snow, placing these under your tires can provide the traction needed to get out. Always carry a snow shovel in your trunk as well.
Protect Your Windshield: Never pour hot water on a frozen car window or windshield. The sudden, extreme change in temperature will cause the glass to crack or shatter.
Personal Safety
Wear Ice Cleats: Attach ice cleats or traction spikes to your winter boots to prevent slipping on icy surfaces. This is highly recommended, especially for seniors, to prevent dangerous falls.
Home & Property Maintenance
Prevent Frozen Pipes: Never turn your home's heat completely off when you are away on vacation. During extreme cold snaps (-30°C to -40°C), leave a faucet dripping slightly to keep water moving and prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting.
Clear Sidewalks and Apply Salt: Promptly shovel snow and apply salt or ice melt to your walkways. As a property owner, you are responsible for clearing your sidewalks; failure to do so can result in neighbor complaints and city bylaw fines, such as a $200 ticket.
Clear Roof Drains and Downspouts: Ensure your roof's eavestroughs and downspouts are clear of debris and ice. Blocked drainage can cause melting snow to pool and flood the area around your home's foundation.