Did you know?
Most drivers know the basics of highway prep, but it’s easy to underestimate how quickly low visibility, ice, and freezing temps can turn a routine trip into a crisis. Even if you’ve been behind the wheel for decades, winter conditions have a way of throwing a curveball when you least expect it.
Things to know before you go
Vehicle safety, routine maintenance, and pre-trip weather checks are essential steps before hitting the road. Despite the risks, many drivers still overlook these basics or choose to ignore official travel advisories. When a weather warning states that travel is unsafe, the decision to proceed can literally be a matter of life or death. Always be prepared to adjust your plans and never hesitate to postpone your trip if conditions turn hazardous.
Last year, on January 16, 2025, I faced my own difficult decision to postpone travel. I had planned to drive to Winnipeg the following day to pick up a family member from the airport, but after hearing the blizzard warnings, I chose to heed the advice to stay off the highways. My family member followed suit, pushing their flight back a week. It proved to be the right call; the blizzard tore through southern Manitoba, leaving chaos in its wake. Tragically, the storm resulted in several major collisions and a loss of life.
The risk of cruise control in winter
Safety experts recommend never using cruise control on snowy, or icy roads. Here is a breakdown of why this common habit can be dangerous:
Loss of traction: If your vehicle hits a slick patch, the cruise control system may not detect the lack of grip immediately.
Automatic acceleration: Because the system is programmed to maintain a constant speed, it might actually increase power to the wheels if it senses the vehicle slowing down on a patch of ice or slush.
Loss of control: This sudden surge of power to the wheels can result in a loss of steering control.
Rule of thumb: When the roads get slick, stay in manual control; being able to immediately reduce power by lifting your foot off the accelerator is your best defence against hydroplaning or sliding.
Bridges and overpasses: Be aware
Bridges and overpasses act like giant cooling fins. While regular pavement is insulated by the earth beneath it, a bridge is “suspended” in the cold. With freezing air circulating above, below, and around the structure, the surface temperature drops significantly faster, leading to early ice formation.
Special driving modes
Check if your vehicle features specialized driving modes. Experts recommend using Snow/Ice Mode to enhance traction and stability on slippery surfaces by optimizing torque distribution, power delivery, and transmission settings. However, keep in mind that these systems aren’t “magic.” While they significantly improve control, they don’t make the vehicle invincible—driving cautiously at reduced speeds remains essential in winter conditions.
Emergency vehicle kits
Preparation is everything when it comes to the open road. To keep you and your passengers safe during the unexpected, here is your essential emergency vehicle kit list:
Whistle
Tow Rope
First Aid Kit
Lock De-Icer
Small Shovel
Small Tool Kit
Warning Lights
Booster Cables
Seatbelt Cutters
Fire Extinguisher
Maps (GPS do fail)
Extra Lease for Pets
Footwear Traction Aids
Blanket (Preferably Wool)
Heavy Duty Garbage Bags
Reflective Safety Triangles
Duct Tape/Tuck Tape/Tarps
Flashlights (Extra Batteries)
Rope/Bungee Cords/Cable Ties
Extra Windshield Washer Fluid
Extra Pair of Glasses or Contact Lenses
Copy of Emergency Plan with Contacts
Mobile Phone and Mobile Chargers etc.
Non-perishable Food (Energy Bars etc.)
Hi-Vis Safety Vest or Reflective Armbands
Bag of Abrasive Material: Sand or Kitty Litter
Wipes/Tissues/Toilet Paper in a sealed container or bag
Extra Clothing: Winter hats, mitts, winter boots, coats, rain gear, umbrella, etc.
Water in plastic bottles so they won’t break if frozen (Change out every six-months)
Extra Snow Brush/Scraper, which is long enough so you can clear the top of your vehicle
Remember, taking the time to learn and practice injury prevention costs you nothing. Failing to do so, could lead to the unthinkable … the loss of your life and the lives of those you hold dear.
Safety—it starts with you
