File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / trendobjectsFile photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / trendobjects
Chatham

Keep It Slow On Ice & Snow

With snow in the forecast over the next several days, provincial police are urging drivers to drive safe this winter.

They say winter tires are a good idea because they're designed to improve traction and control in frost, snow, and icy conditions. Authorities also say winter tires shorten braking distances by as much as 25%.

The OPP warns to never mix different types of tires on one vehicle and tires should be checked regularly for wear and pressure. Cold weather can reduce tire pressure, and worn or damaged tires make it harder to drive safely. The OPP says winter tires are designed to stay soft in freezing temperatures but all-season tires get hard and lose traction.

They're also asking drivers to delay their trip if the weather forecast looks bad. Visit Track my Plow to find out where plows are on provincial highways or use Ontario 511 to check road conditions on the web at ontario.ca/511, on Twitter @511Ontario or dial 511.

Officials say the easiest thing a driver can do to drive safely is to clear ice and snow from their windows, lights, mirrors, and roof and slow down because the number one cause of vehicle collisions during snowy conditions is speed.

Authorities also recommend having emergency supplies including a charged cell phone, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a blanket, warm clothes, jumper cables, a shovel, and traction mats or sand in the vehicle.

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