Winnipeg could see 10-15 centimetres of snow by this weekend. (CHRISD.CA FILE)
Environment Canada is predicting several centimetres of snow for the Winnipeg area this weekend, and CAA wants to make sure drivers are prepared for it.
“Each year when the first big snowfall comes, drivers are caught off guard,” says CAA Manitoba spokesperson Liz Peters.
“The best thing drivers can do to be safe in bad driving conditions is to take their foot off the gas and double the distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them.”
CAA also recommends drivers consider putting winter tires on their vehicle to improve traction.
“Regular all-season tires are the same hardness as a hockey puck when the temperature drops below freezing,” Peters added. “Winter tires are made of special rubber compounds that improve stopping time not only ice and snow but also cold, dry, wet or slushy driving conditions.”
Peters says consumers should look for the snowflake-on-the-mountain symbol when shopping for winter tires. Tires with this symbol are designed specifically for improved traction on snow and ice.
With the first major snowfall of the season, Manitoba Public Insurance also sees an increase in the number of claims being made. MPI also suggests drivers reduce their speed and increase the distance between vehicles.
Environment Canada is calling for about five centimetres of snow for Winnipeg on Friday, with an additional 10-15 centimetres for Saturday.
