Snow in Saskatchewan means extra caution needed behind the wheel

After a few days of snow in Saskatchewan, many drivers have already reacclimated to winter driving habits.

Christine Niemczyk , director of corporate communications with CAA Saskatchewan, shared her tips for safe winter driving as the province anticipates its second dose of the season later this week.

Niemczyk recommended winter tires for every driver to increase traction and stopping power in slick, icy and snowy conditions.

She said checking the vehicle over to be ready for the long winter ahead is key. That includes fluid levels from window washer to oil, lights, signal lights and safety features like seatbelts and child seats — whatever it takes to ensure a vehicle is working and will be safe and reliable in the coming months.

In case of becoming stuck, stranded or broken down in some way, Niemczyk advised drivers to purchase or put together a roadside assistance kit with non-perishable food, drinking water, extra winter gear like mittens and hats, and a phone charger inside.

She also said drivers should have a phone with them.

“Use that in emergency use only. We know we don’t want to be using that behind the wheel,” she said.

Other gear like a shovel, window ice scraper, snowbrush and booster cables could go a long way to helping drivers out of a jam this winter.

“If you’re stranded on the highway, if you’re waiting for help to arrive from CAA or family, what would you need in that vehicle to keep you and your passengers safe and secure?” Niemczyk said.

It only requires as much space as a gym or hockey bag, she said.

Icy driving ahead

With less-than-ideal conditions a surety in the coming days and months, Niemczyk recommended drivers use their signal lights attentively.

“It’s a great way for drivers to communicate their intentions with other road users,” she explained.

With visibility rarely entirely clear, Niemczyk noted the importance of not being a “phantom driver” by making sure front and tail vehicle lights are always on during times like morning or evening when the light is starting to fade or any time conditions are not ideal.

Most important is ensuring your vehicle can be seen and the driver can see.

On Saskatchewan highways, Niemczyk offered a reminder to slow to 60 kilometres per hour when passing first responders, including tow truck operators.

As winter progresses, she also advised keeping an eye out for snowplows and pedestrians who may not be as attentive when near roadways as usual. Drivers should never be distracted behind the wheel, and should be extra attentive around school zones.

Always drive according to the current weather and road conditions, Niemczyk said.

“If roads are slick and sometimes you don’t know the ice that’s coming, there’s snow covering it, it may not be evident to you,” she said.

Niemczyk said slick roads can be on highways or in the city. When the weather is wintry, she advised drivers to give themselves extra time to get to their destination by leaving earlier, providing a buffer for slower traffic or more dangerous conditions.

If the conditions make a driver feel unsafe, she recommended rescheduling plans or calling a taxi or Uber.

Checking road conditions ahead of time and mapping out a route can help drivers better focus on the roads while they’re behind the wheel. The Highway Hotline can help drivers plan their routes and the CAA website has more information on safety behind the wheel.

“Remember to slow down, stay back and stay safe,” Niemczyk said.