Island drivers know that with winter on the way certain adjustments must be made in order to be safe on the province’s highways. That’s why this week the Provincial Department of Transportation and Public Works will remind Islanders to drive safely and follow the rules of the road during National Safe Driving Week. The annual event is organized by the Canada Safety Council and jurisdictions all across Canada mark the occasion by reminding drivers to equip their vehicles for winter, and to be prepared for poor conditions.
“Winter roads present a set of challenges that require drivers to be more cautious and to ensure their vehicle is properly equipped in order to be as safe as possible,” says Minister of Transportation and Public Works Ron MacKinley. “Being prepared for poor conditions is the best way to ensure safe winter driving.”
In order to be prepared for the challenges winter can present, the Department of Transportation and Public Works recommends the following:
- Use four matching, certified, winter tires.
- Have an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes a blanket, a flashlight, an ice scraper and brush, a shovel, a bag of sand, fresh water, booster cables and a properly inflated spare tire.
- Adjust your driving habits to suit the conditions and slow down.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good working order.
“These tips can go a long way to ensuring your safety and the safety of other road users over the winter months,” said Minister MacKinley. “But it’s also important to remember the basics; don’t drink and drive and be sure to wear your seatbelt.”