Province Reminds Drivers to Prepare for Winter Conditions
The Province is reminding people to prepare for winter driving conditions. (Province of Nova Scotia / File)
With winter fast approaching, the Province is reminding Nova Scotians of steps they can take to prepare for driving conditions.
“It is important to prepare your vehicle and yourself for the expected snowy and icy conditions over the next several months,” said Fred Tilley, Minister of Public Works. “Being prepared is important for your safety and the safety of those around you, and I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for drivers to take their time and to stay back from snow removal crews to allow them to do their work.”
To prepare for unpredictable winter weather, vehicles should have winter tires, cold temperature antifreeze and an emergency kit.
Other winter driving tips include:
- wearing seatbelts (seatbelts are required by law year round)
- slowing down and leaving additional space between vehicles; it takes more time and distance to brake in winter conditions
- keeping the gas tank at least half full
- clearing snow off the vehicle
- planning ahead and allowing extra time for possible delays.
To help remind drivers to prepare for winter road conditions, the Province is also running its annual Be Winter Ready campaign. The campaign features online ads that promote safe driving tips and share details about the tools and services that are available to make winter driving safer.
Quotes:
“Winter driving is all about preparation and patience. Before you head out, make sure your vehicle is ready. Clear snow and ice, check your tires and pack an emergency kit. On the road, slow down and leave extra space between vehicles. Conditions can change quickly, and planning ahead can make all the difference in getting home safely.”
— Cpl. Gary McLaughlin, RCMP Northeast Traffic Services – Cape Breton
Quick Facts:
- the Department of Public Works is responsible for keeping provincial roads, highways and bridges safe and as clear as possible
- the Department operates more than 400 snowplows and other snow-clearing vehicles, and crews are on the job day and night, 24/7
Additional Resources:
Department of Public Works Winter time web page: https://novascotia.ca/tran/winter/
People with concerns about a provincial road can call the Department’s operations contact centre at 1-844-696-7737 or email [email protected]
Updates on road conditions across the province are available by:
- calling 511
- following 511 on X: https://x.com/511ns
- visiting the 511 website: https://511.novascotia.ca/
Department of Public Works on X: https://x.com/NS_PublicWorks