Winter Driving

MrElectrician

The Alberta Motor Association advises, "Your most lethal enemy during winter is not being adequately informed or prepared for winter driving." Stay safe on the roads this winter – here's some sound advice:

* y. J  M* W$ Q9 U& a, h1. Check the operation of your block heater. A properly installed and operating block heater is a necessity for easy vehicle starts on cold mornings. Used with a timer, a block heater uses minimal electricity.

2. Here's a good practice for any time of year: Before you get into your vehicle, do a quick walk-around check. Clean all windows, lights, mirrors. Look for drips, leaks and flat tires, etc.

3. Before you set off, check the weather reports. If it's bad and you can postpone your trip - do so.
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4. Adjust your driving to the conditions. Don't get irate, don't be in a hurry.
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5. Many people put winter fronts on their vehicles. These shields block the flow of cold air and may let your engine get to peak operating temperatures more quickly on short trips. However, before you use one, check your warranty and with your mechanic to be sure you use the front properly.
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0 E6 W: K: `/ a/ F1 H2 X6. Don't warm your vehicle for too long. As soon as it will idle normally and the windows are clear, move off slowly and take it easy until your engine and drive train warm up together.

: H/ O& F# v# u$ f1 B7. If your windshield washer fluid runs out, pull over in a safe spot and use snow to clean windows before proceeding. Don’t forget to fill your windshield washer reservoir the next time you stop at a service station.

+ o5 U* j* R, B" q6 {$ m* l8. When you park, back into your spot so that the battery is handy if you need a boost later.
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9. A hairdryer, warm water or a de-icer will help open frozen doors or trunk lock.
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5 S) e1 Y) G( V3 v- G" ^3 e10. Try to keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent condensation and gas line freeze-up. Use gas line antifreeze if you do a great deal of city driving.