Winter driving in Canada can be challenging at times. Dawson Group is here to remind all highway users about safe wintertime driving habits.

As of Oct. 1, the annual Shift Into Winter campaign kicks off six months of safe driving tips, encouraging all highway users to change their driving habits when the weather changes. As a member of the Winter Driving Safety Alliance, DRM encourages you and your families, friends, and colleagues to prepare for the upcoming season. Winter conditions such as colder temperatures, reduced visibility and fewer daylight hours can present serious hazards for all drivers.

Here a few simple steps to help keep you and your loved ones safe this winter:

  • Install a set of four matching winter tires (three-peaked mountain and snowflake) with at least 3.5 mm of tread depth
    • Don’t wait until it’s too late! Install them now before the poor weather hits as they provide better traction and control in rain, snow, slush and icy conditions
  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
    • Blanket
    • Snacks
    • Candle
    • Flashlight
    • Small shovel

Know how to drive for the conditions before you get behind the wheel. Even the most experienced drivers can’t predict how their vehicles or other drivers will react in rain, snow or on ice. 

  • Slow down to match road conditions
    • The posted speed limit is the maximum speed under ideal driving conditions
  • Keep at least four seconds of distance between you and the vehicle in front
    • Leaving extra space allows more time for you to react to other driver’s behaviours
  • When stopping, plan well in advance, apply the brakes gently and slowly add pressure
  • Use extreme caution and slow down when approaching highway maintenance equipment including plows, salt and sand trucks
    • Never pass on the right
  • Download the free prerecorded online webinar – Shift into Winter: Practical BC Winter Driving Tips

You’re not tougher than the weather: if possible, postpone your plans and avoid driving when road and weather conditions are poor.

Lastly, be sure to check for weather warnings and drive conditions at DriveBC.ca and using the hashtag #ShiftIntoWinter on social media before you go. Be sure to tell others about your travel plans and when they can expect your arrival. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination safely.

For more information on what you can do to stay safe when driving this winter, visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca.