Safe driving always in season
Winter driving tips for holiday travel
With many Atlantic Canadians making plans to travel this holiday season, CAA Atlantic is reminding travelers the importance and benefits of preparing for the winter travel season
“Holiday travel often coincides with unpredictable weather across Atlantic Canada, so making sure you’re prepared for winter driving before you leave home should be part of your holiday travel planning,” says Gary Howard, President of Marketing and Communications for CAA Atlantic. “This time of year road conditions can quickly become dangerous without any warning. We want to make sure people traveling for the holidays make it to their destination safely.”
CAA Atlantic offers the following tips to keep in mind while on the road this holiday season:
• Put winter tires on your vehicle, regardless of the anticipated snow accumulation in your region.
• Let others know your itinerary and route before you travel.
• Carry a fully charged cell phone (and charger) to call a friend or roadside assistance if needed.
• Take your car into your local service technician to ensure routing maintenance is up-to-date before long driving journeys. This could include having your battery inspected for wear and ensuring the right grade of oil in your vehicle for optimal winter use.
• Pack a winter car kit with supplies in the event you have an issue with your vehicle and must wait for roadside assistance.
For travellers who are flying to their holiday destinations, CAA Atlantic recommends the following:
• Book your flights early in the morning. If there are weather or mechanical related delays you have other options as the day progresses.
• Check in early to avoid long line-ups.
• Do not pack gifts in carryon luggage as they will have to be unwrapped at security
• Be aware of your surroundings and always keep your luggage close to you.
• Be kind. After all it is the holiday season and everyone – including airline staff – is trying to get home to their families.
For more information and tips to help keep you safe on the roads this winter and holiday season, visit www.atlantic.caa.ca/winter-driving
The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is a federation of nine clubs providing more than six million Members with roadside assistance, Member Rewards and comprehensive automotive and travel services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including: road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure, and consumer protection.