Every year we seem surprised when Mother Nature unleashes her winter wrath upon us - as if we've never experienced a winter season before. We all know the reality of our Southwestern Ontario climate and what we have to do to “weather” through the winter driving season...or do we?

Here are your tips for staying safe on the roads this winter:

1. Get an extra set of rims and buy yourself snow/ice tires.
“Winter-Only” tires are much more effective on snow and ice than even the best “All Season” tires.

2. Slow down!
Poor visibility, slippery roads, hidden hazards and other non-attentive drivers all require more time and distance to react to, avoid or stop.

3. Check the weather forecast before a long trip.
If the weather looks bad, stay put and wait out the storm.

4. Pack a winter survival kit in the trunk of your car.
Here are just a few items to get you started with your winter survival kit:
- Small shovel and basic tool kit
- Booster cables
- Blanket
- Snacks (non perishable) and bottled water
- Candles, matches (or lighter) and a flashlight with extra batteries
- Cell-phone with 12-volt charging cable
- First aid kit
- Flares, neon distress signs, fluorescent paint or tape
- Whistle

Click here for more survival kit items!

5. Scrape and clean all your car windows before you leave the parking lot.

Use the defroster. It takes the moisture out of the air inside and prevents your windows from fogging up.

6. Take Skid School courses.
Hey you're a student - what's one more course!

Good luck, safe driving and watch out for us! For more information on how you can stay safe in the winter, drop into Fanshawe's Health & Safety Services office in D1021 or call 519-452-4424.