Dave Levac
FOR BRANT NEWS

Ontario’s roads are consistently ranked among the safest in North America.

To help keep people safe while driving during winter, Ontario uses some of the best winter maintenance practices. Our experienced contractors remain ready to respond to winter weather conditions and work hard to make sure Ontario’s roads are salted, sanded and cleared of snow.

When a winter storm hits, maintenance contractors must:

• Monitor the weather and plan their operations according to conditions.
• Deploy equipment within 30 minutes of the start of a winter storm.
• Plow highways when two centimetres of snow or slush accumulate on the roadway.
• Plow, salt or sand highways during and after a storm.
In addition, Ministry of Transportation staff monitor contractor operations to ensure this work is performed.
Driving requires your full attention, especially in winter. Remember, when driving in winter weather you must slow down, stay alert and stay in control.

Slow down:

• Roads covered with snow or ice can be dangerous.
• Adjust your speed to the current weather and road conditions.
• Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to avoid having to brake suddenly on a slippery surface.

Stay alert:

• Weather conditions can change quickly, placing extra demands on your vehicle and driving skills.
• Keep your focus on the road and on other vehicles.
• Eliminate all distractions and make sure you are well rested.
• Watch for the flashing lights of winter maintenance vehicles. Be patient and do not pass around or between them.
• Move over for emergency vehicles.

Stay in control:

• Know how to handle your vehicle in all weather conditions.
• Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready and keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle.
• Listen to the radio for road and weather updates and check conditions before leaving by calling 511 or 1-800-268-4686.
• Whenever visibility is poor, turn on your vehicle’s lights.
• Plan extra time to get to your destination and consider delaying your trip in bad weather.
• Notify a friend or family member of your destination and anticipated arrival time.

For more information about winter road safety, please visit www.ontario.ca/winterdriving or my website at www.davelevac.on.ca.

Dave Levac is MPP for Brant and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.