Winter safety tips every Canadian should know

(NC) As severe weather events become increasingly common, weatherproofing your car and home is essential so you can handle winter with greater confidence. Here are some tips to provide peace of mind and help you get winter-ready.

At home:

• Stay prepared for a storm by having a home emergency kit well-stocked with essentials such as a three-day water supply, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, a hand-crank flashlight, a first aid kit, a multi-purpose tool and extra batteries.
• Test your carbon monoxide detectors every six months to ensure they’re working properly and replace their batteries. Many smart home detectors perform monthly safety self-checks to take the guesswork out for you.
• Have your furnace and any other heating equipment serviced annually to ensure they're operating safely and efficiently. This step can help prevent unexpected breakdowns during a storm.
• If using space heaters, make sure they’re plugged directly into a wall outlet and turn them off when not in use.
• In case of a power outage, only open your fridge or freezer when necessary to extend the shelf life of your food. Consider purchasing battery-powered or solar-powered coolers to have as backups for perishable items.

On the road:

• Before going anywhere, always check the weather forecast. Heed weather warnings and avoid driving in bad conditions.
• Purchase winter tires to ensure better traction for handling snowy or icy roads. While all-season tires may seem enticing, they just don’t have the same cold-weather performance as winter tires—making the switch can make winter driving much safer.
• If you find yourself stuck or delayed due to severe weather or poor road conditions, having a full tank of gas will help you stay warm. Simply turn on the motor and run the heat for 10 minutes every hour. Don’t forget to crack open a window for proper ventilation. If you have an electric vehicle, prioritize using your seat or wheel warmers to extend your car’s remaining battery charge.
• Many insurers, such as Belairdirect, offer roadside assistance, which can help ensure peace of mind in case of any unexpected situations that may occur on the road.

By following these tips, you can be better prepared for the winter weather. Find more safety tips at belairdirect.com.