With the Easter Long Weekend just two days away, and a winter storm hitting the southern part of Manitoba, CAA is reminding people to be prepared for winter driving.
While the Parkland isn't supposed to be hit as hard as southern Manitoba if you're heading out on the road over the next couple of days, make sure you're ready for anything. Elisha Dacey, the CAA Communications Manager for Manitoba, says there are a few ways to make sure you're ready.
"It's always best to wait until the snow clears, the roads are clear, and then you just know that it's a little safer on the roads. But if you do have to travel, and you are coming south of Dauphin, there are a few things you can do, just to make sure you're a little safer on the roads."
Dacey says they know that not everyone has the ability to stay in when the weather is bad, so there are a number of ways to be as safe as possible.
- Leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead. Stopping distances increase on ice and snow.
- Stay on main roads when possible. Back roads may not always be well plowed during winter storm events.
- Always keep a phone charger in your car. You can’t call for help without a charged phone and you will need battery power until help arrives.
- Avoid using overdrive or cruise control. You want as much focus and control of your vehicle as possible.
- Slow down and move over for emergency vehicles. This includes tow trucks and service vehicles.
- Never pass a snowplow. This could result in a severe, even fatal collision. Stay well back when you see the flashing lights of a snowplow.
It's also important to know driving conditions ahead of time so you can plan accordingly, and make sure you're staying off of closed highways says Dacey.
"If something happens to you on a closed road, CAA can't come get you. We're not allowed to travel on a closed road, so at that point, you'd have to call the RCMP."
For the most up-to-date road conditions, check out the Parkview Auto Glass Road Conditions Tab.
