Stay safe with these winter driving tips from Gan Chev
*Paid Business Feature*
Winter weather can be dangerous and unpredictable. That’s why Gan Chev has put together a collection of helpful tips and reminders to help drivers stay safe on the roads.
Should the unthinkable happen, and you find yourself in need of bodywork due to an accident or any other damage, CSN Gananoque body shop, a division of Gan Chev, offers quick turnaround time and excellent customer service.
“We don’t want anyone to be in an accident, but if you find yourself in need of a collision centre, CSN Gananoque is here to help!” said Ted Maloney, manager of the CSN body shop. “We have a state-of-the-art facility and work on all makes and models. We are also one of the only GM certified shops in the area.”
To avoid the need for any bodywork, keep these tips in mind for all your winter travel:
Check the weather and plan your trip.
While it’s ideal to postpone travel when bad weather is imminent, some travel can’t be avoided. If you have to travel in bad weather, plan to use more travelled routes even if it will take longer. Well-travelled roadways will be cleared of snow more often and have more traffic if you find yourself in a situation.
Remember to leave more time when travelling in poor weather conditions – snowplows and other motorists are also navigating the winter roads.
Use winter tires.
Winter tires help with braking, steering and acceleration on icy and snow-covered roads:
“The primary function of a snow tire is to provide you stability on the road during the cold months and a softer rubber allows them to do just that,” reads the Gan Chev Tire Center website. “The tread pattern and sips on each individual tread also make snow tires safer for winter driving. The treads are designed to grip on ice and have a suction effect on the cold, wet road surface.”
Get in touch with the Gan Chev team to discuss current winter tire packages.
Clean off your vehicle.
Before you leave the driveway, remove all snow and ice from your vehicle to avoid blind spots and creating hazards and poor visibility for nearby drivers. Consider starting your vehicle to let it warm up ahead of time. This allows the windshield and side glasses to clear before driving for proper visibility.
Keep topped up.
Keep your gas tank and windshield wiper fluid levels up at all times, but especially during the winter months. Be sure to use a winter formulated wiper fluid to avoid ice buildup on your windshield.
Be aware of your fuel consumption — when starting and running your vehicle to clear it off you may burn more fuel than you’re used to. Try to keep your fuel level above half even if it requires more fill-ups. If you do happen to slide off the road it could be a while before help comes, and in cold weather, keeping warm is of utmost importance. Car heaters require running the engine, which, in turn, requires fuel.
Keep a cell phone charger in the vehicle.
Having a cell phone charger in your car at all times is important in every season. However, in the colder winter months, cell phone batteries can lose a charge more quickly. If you find yourself in an accident or slippery situation, having a charged cell phone can literally be a lifesaver.
Prepare an emergency kit.
Should you find yourself in an emergency, having a container in your trunk with some supplies can come in very handy. Some items the Gan Chev team suggest keeping in your vehicle during the winter months are:
- First aid supplies
- Flashlight
- Folding Shovel
- Non-Perishable Food
- Water
- Road Flares
- Tow Strap
- Booster Cables
- Sand or Kitty Litter
- Extra Winter Boots and Gloves
- A Blanket
No one wants to think about getting stuck, or being in an accident, but being prepared is in your best interest. Winter travel can be fun and exciting, but remember that the weather can change in an instant. Keeping these tips in mind will help you enjoy the winter season safely.
This article is sponsored by Gan Chev. Interested in a Business Feature on Kingstonist? Contact [email protected]