Winter driving in Canada calls for respect, preparation, and a few simple habits that make the difference between a stressful trip and a safe one.
Whether you’re commuting through a city that sees heavy snowfall or driving an icy highway between communities, adopting practical precautions keeps you, your passengers, and other road users safe.
Vehicle preparation is step one. Tires matter most: fit high-quality winter tires and check tread depth regularly. Many provinces encourage or require winter tires on certain routes, and traction performance is dramatically better once temperatures drop. Inspect brakes, wiper blades, headlights and taillights, and ensure your battery is healthy—cold temperatures reduce battery output. Top up antifreeze and use winter-grade windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing.
Pack a winter emergency kit and keep it accessible. Useful items include:
– Warm blanket or sleeping bag
– Extra clothing, gloves, hat, and waterproof boots
– Nonperishable snacks and water
– Shovel, ice scraper, and snow brush
– Sand, cat litter, or traction mats for traction under tires
– Flashlight with spare batteries and a fully charged portable power bank
– First-aid kit and basic tools
– Reflective warning triangle or flares
– Tow rope and jumper cables
Driving technique changes on snow and ice. Reduce speed and increase following distance—stopping distances can be several times longer in winter conditions. Brake gently to avoid locking; if your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), press firmly and let the system do the work. Avoid sudden steering inputs and steer into a skid if the rear of the vehicle slides.
Never use cruise control on slippery surfaces.
Black ice is a hidden hazard. It often forms on bridges, overpasses, shaded sections of road, and early in the morning. Vigilance is key: ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt moves when you suspect slippery patches. Use lower gears on declines to help maintain control without heavy braking.
Plan your route and timing. Check provincial road-condition websites and traffic advisories before you leave, and allow extra travel time. If a forecast calls for heavy snow or a major storm, consider postponing nonessential trips. In remote areas, cell coverage can be unreliable; tell someone your route and expected arrival time.
Maintenance for longer trips includes keeping fuel tanks at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze and to ensure you can run the engine periodically for warmth if stranded.
Consider carrying a small container of fuel if you’ll be far from service stations, but store it safely and legally.
Visibility may deteriorate quickly.
Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and roof before driving; snow left on the roof can slide forward and obscure your windshield or blow onto vehicles behind you. Use defrosters to keep windows clear and replace worn wiper blades with winter-rated versions.
If you become stuck, stay with the vehicle unless safety dictates otherwise. Running the engine for short intervals can provide heat—ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. Use your hazard lights and set out reflective markers to increase visibility.
Finally, know when to opt for alternatives. Public transit, carpooling, or delaying travel are valid choices in severe conditions. For essential journeys, choose routes that stay on major arteries and avoid backroads with limited services.
A little prep and cautious driving turn winter from a hazard into a manageable part of Canadian life. Plan, equip, and drive defensively to keep every trip safe and predictable.