Safe Driving Tips for Winnipeg: Expert Advice for Road Safety
Winnipeg is known for harsh winters, black ice and cold that can drop below -30°C. With the right habits and a prepared vehicle, you can drive confidently in all of it. These tips come from the team that answers breakdown calls across the city.
Six safe driving tips
- Check your tires. Make sure they have enough tread and the correct pressure. Cold lowers tire pressure, so check it more often in winter. Winter tires give much better grip on snow and ice.
- Reduce your speed. Speed is the biggest factor in winter crashes. Slow down on snow, ice and in poor visibility.
- Use your lights. Keep headlights on in low light and in snow so other drivers see you early. Clear snow off all lights before you drive.
- Avoid distractions. Phones, food and anything that takes your eyes off the road are a leading cause of collisions.
- Keep a safe distance. On ice you need several times the usual stopping distance. Leave room to react.
- Know your limits. If conditions make you uncomfortable, wait, take another route or do not drive.
Prepare your vehicle
- Battery: Have it tested before winter. Cold is the number one reason cars will not start; see what to do when your car will not start.
- Fluids and wipers: Use winter washer fluid and replace worn wiper blades.
- Brakes and tires: Check them regularly.
- Block heater: Plug in when it is very cold so the engine starts easily.
- Fuel: Keep the tank at least half full in winter.
Build a roadside emergency kit
Keep these in your trunk from fall to spring:
- Warm blanket, hat, gloves and boots
- Flashlight and a charged power bank
- Booster cables or a jump pack
- Small shovel and sand or cat litter for traction
- Water, snacks and a first-aid kit
- Reflective triangle or flares
If something goes wrong
- Turn on your hazard lights and move off the road if you can do it safely.
- Call 911 for injuries or a blocked lane.
- Stay in your vehicle if you are in a safe place, and only run the engine briefly with the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
- Share your exact location with your tow company. If you are stuck, follow these steps while you wait for help.
When you need a tow
If you cannot drive, we can help any time of day. Our team handles towing, jump starts, tire changes, lockouts and heavy and medium duty towing across Winnipeg and the surrounding area. See our service areas or call +1 (204) 619-5459.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need winter tires? They are strongly recommended. They stay flexible in the cold and grip far better than all-season tires on ice and snow.
How full should my gas tank be in winter? At least half. It reduces condensation in the tank and gives you fuel if you are stuck.
What is the biggest winter driving mistake? Driving too fast for the conditions.
Brown Square Towing
Address: Winnipeg, MB, Canada
Phone: +1 (204) 619-5459
Email: towing@brownsquareinc.com
