Get Ready for Winter: CAA, Toronto Police, and OPP Offer Winter Driving Safety Tips “`

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a8f002073bee1c14bf3c7e12749558a7 1 Avoid the Winter Wallop: CAA, Toronto Police Service and OPP team up with winter weather readiness tips

THORNHILL, ON, Nov. 19, 2024 – With winter approaching, the CAA, Toronto Police Service, and Ontario Provincial Police are collaborating to promote winter driving safety.

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO), Toronto Police Service (TPS) and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are teaming up to help inform Ontario drivers that now is the time to install winter tires, check their car batteries, and stock their cars with emergency car kits that include essentials for the winter months. (CNW Group/CAA South Central Ontario)

These organizations are advising Ontario drivers to install winter tires, check their car batteries, and prepare emergency kits with winter essentials.

“Ontario winters are unpredictable, and snowstorms can arrive suddenly. Preparation is key for safe driving,” says Nadia Matos, CAA SCO’s external communications manager. “Proactive safety measures are crucial.”

Safe winter driving depends heavily on driver behavior.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility,” states Sergeant Murray Campbell, Toronto Police Service. “With shorter daylight hours and reduced visibility, we urge drivers to be vigilant, aware of others, adjust driving to conditions, ensure lights are on, and plan for extra travel time.”

The organizations reiterate last year’s Highway Traffic Act amendments, including the illegality of passing snowplows operating in tandem on Ontario highways.

“Passing these plows is illegal and extremely dangerous,” says Sergeant Ted Dongelmans, Ontario Provincial Police. “Penalties range from $150 to $1,000.”

Motorists can utilize the 511 app (available at 511on.ca or app stores) to check weather and road conditions before travel.

For safer winter travel, CAA, TPS, and OPP offer these tips:

  • Test your car battery. Replace if needed. CAA SCO Members receive free battery testing during service calls.
  • Pack a complete emergency kit. This should include a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices, a first-aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, non-perishable food and water, a phone charger, ice scraper, small shovel, and snow brush.
  • Service your vehicle. Check brakes, change oil, and replenish fluids.
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full. Cold weather can cause fuel-line freeze-up.
  • Check your lighting system. Ensure headlights and signal lights function properly.

About CAA South Central Ontario
CAA South Central Ontario is a non-profit auto club representing over 2.5 million Members, advocating for road safety and mobility. For over a century, CAA has collaborated with communities, police, and governments to enhance driver safety.

®CAA Trademarks owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario

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