Despite weather warnings, we must sometimes hit the road. In some situations, road conditions may force you to immobilize the car and take refuge in it.
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO BETTER PREPARE YOU FOR SUCH AN EVENT:
- Before leaving, let your loved ones know at what time you expect to arrive and which route you will be taking.
- Make sure you’re always driving on a full tank of gas.
- Always have your cell phone on you and make sure it’s fully charged.
WHAT STEPS DO YOU NEED TO TAKE IF YOU MUST IMMOBILIZE YOUR CAR?
- As soon as you’ve stopped, dial 9-1-1 to notify the emergency response team of your location.
- Avoid getting out of your car and wasting energy. Physical effort in cold weather can be the cause of several ailments.
- It is important to ensure that the exhaust pipe of your vehicle is not blocked by snow or ice. This could allow carbon monoxide to enter the vehicle and poison you.
- Let the window with the least wind exposure slightly ajar for fresh air to circulate.
- Wear a warm hat. 60% of your body’s heat is lost through the head.
- Keep moving and stay awake.
- Use the engine as little as possible.
- Transport Canada (they don’t skimp on security, you’ll see) advises to have a security kit ready, which should contain the following items:
- A flashlight
- A ice scraper and snow brush
- A shovel and traction aid
- Battery booster cables
- Warm clothes
- A blanket
- Matches and candles to warm your hands without having to use the car battery or emptying the gas tank
- Flares and a reflective vest
- Water and food
- A first-aid kit
Bad weather is hard to predict and with our harsh winters, plans must be made for an emergency… Sometimes even on highway 13 in the heart of Montreal! It’s a lot easier to tackle this situation safely if you are well prepared.
