Frigid temperatures lead to busy weekend for tow trucks

While frigid temperatures cause havoc for drivers, tow companies are keeping busy.

Since Christmas Day, CAA Saskatchewan has responded to 374 calls in Regina and 554 in Saskatoon.

Of those, 310 and 400 respectively were calls for battery boosts.

“It’s expected for this time of year, but also what we’re finding is most motorists were not expecting this extreme arctic air cold weather right now,” said Christine Niemczyk, director of communications for CAA Saskatchewan.

Niemczyk said this blast of arctic air often makes people realize how much they rely on their vehicles to get them to places safely and keep them warm.

She said it’s crucial drivers plug in their vehicles, or start it a few times, to ensure it can run in these temperatures. Vehicle checks are also important.

“Before you get everyone in the vehicle, let’s make sure you’ve checked the battery, block heater and cord, you checked your vehicle fluids.”

Niemczyk also recommends people check their brakes and wait for their windows to be completely defrosted.

Emergency kits can also be useful if disaster strikes.

It should include items such as a source of heat – a candle or something of that nature – a flashlight, non-perishable food, water and extra clothes.

Niemczyk said if a driver gets stranded it’s important they stay inside their vehicles and stay warm; stranded drivers are given first-priority.