Personal preparedness
Richard Spénard introduction
Don’t let winter take you by surprise
The change of seasons is becoming more and more unpredictable, and winter can seem to arrive overnight. If you’re prepared, you can reduce the stress associated with the change, and confidently meet the challenges associated with winter driving conditions.
Watch the weather
Most morning and evening radio shows make frequent reports on road conditions and traffic problems. Taking a moment to listen and note critical information pertaining to your route can help you avoid dangerous situations, and reduce your commuting time. Listening to short and long-term weather forecasts can also help you make important driving decisions.
Plan your route
When travelling long distances or to unfamiliar destinations, it’s important to consider your route. The Weather Channel and Météomédia feature up-to-date information on road conditions, with an easy-to-understand colour coding system that shows if major highways are clear, partially covered, or completely blocked. If conditions are particularly bad, it’s sometimes advisable to stay off the roads altogether.
Anticipate that you may get stuck or need to spend time in your car, waiting for help, and make sure that your vehicle is equipped with the following:
- a shovel
- a tire gauge, jack, and fully inflated spare
- gravel, salt, or a small piece of carpet
- non-perishable food
- jumper cables
- emergency flares
- a block heater (check annually)
- warm clothes or a blanket
- a first-aid kit
Emergency phone numbers
If you carry a cell phone, identify the person or people to call in case of emergency (ICE) by putting these three letters before name(s) in your list of contacts. Also, if you’re subscribed to a road-side assistance program, make sure the number to call is prominently posted inside your vehicle.
Driver position
Make sure you sit high enough in the driver's seat to see over the steering wheel and hood. Your hand placement on the steering wheel should be at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock position, with your elbows slightly bent. Also, be sure that your outerwear does not hinder your mobility or slip on the wheel. If the vehicle is equipped with a driver air bag, you should be positioned at a minimum of 30 cm from it.
Collecting snowflakes will build your knowledge and prepare you for the test.