Re: Winter Driving –
Title: Winter Driving Safety
The Cold War is back. Keep winter under surveillance. Don’t know? Don’t go.
Welcome to the Shift into Winter website. Here you will find resources and tips on how to stay safe on the road this winter, whether you drive as part of your job or for pleasure.
First – do you really need to go? Remember that every day thousands of BC workers risk being injured or killed while driving on the job. Driving in winter conditions can put you at even greater risk.
The best way to stay safe on the roads this winter is to avoid driving when road and weather conditions are bad. Even an hour or two can make a big difference. If you can, wait until the weather improves. If you have to drive, drive smart. Make sure your vehicle is winter ready, give yourself lots of extra time to get where you need to go and carry an emergency survival kit.
A few moments thinking about it now could save you problems when you are behind the wheel.
| This week’s tip. |
| Keep at least four seconds distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will allow plenty of room in situations where you may need to brake suddenly on a slippery surface. |
Here’s what you can do to drive safely in winter conditions.
- Prepare yourself for winter driving (PDF 1.6 MB). Driving in winter can be treacherous, prepare yourself by working through seven key steps. Be sure to visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions and weather forecasts.
- Prepare your vehicle for winter weather (PDF 941 KB). Winter weather is hard on your vehicle and its engine. Make sure it is up to the challenge.
- Drive for the conditions (PDF 1 MB). Think about how to manage in winter conditions before you have to.
- Winter driving tips for truck drivers (PDF 177 KB). Winter can be a dangerous time to be on roadways, whether you are a new or seasoned driver. Be prepared and stay safe.
News Release
Don’t let winter road conditions catch you buy surprise, November 1, 2012, BCAA Road Safety Foundation
Resources for your Workplace
Here are some tips to help you and your team stay safe on the roads:
- Winter Driving Tips for BC Log Haulers (PDF 219 KB) 13 tips to keep you and your truck safe in winter conditions.
- Shift Into Winter Safety Committee – Employer Presentation (PowerPoint) A presentation for joint safety committees, employers, supervisors and workers. Select “Notes Pages” to see the speaking notes that accompany the presentation.
- Winter Driving Survival checklist (PDF 984 KB) Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped in case you become stranded.
Winter Driving Safety Posters
Listen to the Shift into Winter radio campaign
Radio spot #1 (30 sec)
Radio spot #2 (30 sec)
Other Related Information
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (BC Government)
- DriveBC
Check highway conditions, highway cams and delay information. - DriveBC Weather
Check for route forecasts and current conditions. - Traction and Winter Driving
This guide explains the differences between chains and provides general guidelines on their use. - DriveBC Chain-up Information
Information on how to use tire chains properly.
Weather Warnings for British Columbia
Source: Environment
