While Niagara winters can be beautiful often looking like a snowy, frozen winter wonderland, the season can also create safety risks worth preparing yourself for. To plan for a safe winter season this year, we have some tips below to help you and your family brave the cold this winter.
Here are six tips for keeping safe this season:
Vehicle Maintenance:
- Tires: Your summer tires simply won't do this season. Winter tires should be on all vehicles to ensure vehicle safety.
- Battery: When it comes to your car battery ensure that the charging system is fully working, as the cold weather can be a threat to car batteries.
- Lights: Checking your interior and exterior lights is essential, as more hours are spent in the dark during the winter season.
Drive Cautiously:
Remember to keep a safe distance behind other vehicles, clear snow from your vehicle before you depart, ensure you have proper tires for the weather condition and lower your speed appropriately. Additionally, prepare an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle stocked with flashlights, blankets, salt or sand, a folding shovel, extra food and water, plus winter gloves and hats.
Check the Weather:
Winter weather can change drastically in minutes, so always check up on the weather conditions before you leave home. Prepare for any storms and only venture out if absolutely necessary.
Shovel your Sidewalk:
In addition to being safer for both you and anyone who walks down your street, some locations across Canada require it by law. Make sure you are aware of your local policy, as neglect can occasionally result in fines.
Dress appropriately:
If you walk often, ensure you have proper winter boots for warmth and traction. Layer appropriately to stay warm, and use hats, scarves and gloves to cover your extremities and prevent risk of frostbite.
Be prepared when engaging in outdoor activities:
Going camping, hiking or skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter, however they require extra planning and caution to be taken. Inform someone where you are going and how long you will be there, and always plan to arrive back home before sunset, as getting caught in the dark while temperatures drop can be dangerous.