CAA Saskatchewan urges drivers to prepare for winter conditions

Winter driving conditions could be treacherous throughout the province on Sunday and Monday, forcing drivers to be prepared for the worst.

CAA Saskatchewan is reminding motorists to be diligent in the conditions.

“I think we do have a false sense of security saying, ‘I’ve done this before’ or ‘I’ve driven through these conditions.’ But until we’re actually dealing with these conditions, it’s a wakeup call,” said Christine Niemczyk, the director of communications for CAA Saskatchewan.

“Until we’re in that intersection and we’re trying to stop for the light and we’re slipping and sliding or we’re on the Ring Road and I can’t see in front of me because there’s a lot of blowing snow, it’s your wakeup call.”

Niemczyk gave a list of some things to take into consideration before getting behind the wheel this weekend.

• Check the Highway Hotline to see how conditions are in your area.
• Have winter tires on your vehicle.
• Make sure you have an emergency kit available in your vehicle, which could include a small shovel, extra outer gear including boots, mitts, toques and non-perishable food.
• Make sure your phone is fully charged.

“I often say if you have room for a gym bag, if you have room for hockey equipment, you have room for a roadside assistance kit,” Niemczyk said. “Now is the time before the snow and ice hit us this weekend to do some prevention, do some thinking and get your car road-ready, make sure it’s winterized.”

Regina police officers responded to more than 15 collisions, including at least two that involved injury, during the first snowfall on Oct. 20.
Jeff Wiebe, sales manager for Regina’s Kal Tire, says despite the demand in people inquiring about getting their winter tires put on, it hasn’t been a challenge getting people in.

“People are historically very reactional when it comes to getting their vehicles fitted for winter,” Wiebe said. “It hasn’t been a problem getting people in.

“For a typical tire change from summer to winter is taking about two to three days to get you in.”