Driving In Canada: How To Stay Safe In A Winter Wonderland

Canada is a gorgeous country, particularly during winter months. The great, northern wilderness is full of outdoor winter activities that every member of your family can enjoy, including skiing, hiking, and beautiful scenic drives. Along with all that gorgeous, fluffy, white snow also comes some hazardous driving conditions. In this article, you'll learn some general tips about driving in Canada, how to handle treacherous winter roads and what to do if you get stuck in the snow at the side of the road.

General Tips for Driving in Canada

Driving in Canada is very similar to driving in the United States, but some minor differences can make things a little bit confusing. Keep these facts in mind when you cross the border:

  • Speed limits are listed in kilometers.
  • Some road signs may be written in French.
  • Seat belts are required, regardless of age or position in the vehicle.
  • Some provinces require headlights to be used at all times.
  • Merge lanes are not available on many highways.

To ensure that you're prepared, traveling with a French to English dictionary and be able to convert kilometers to miles will be very helpful.

As long as you're only visiting, your U.S. driver's license and auto insurance are valid, but to cross the border into Canada, you will be required to present a valid passport for each member of your family.

Winter Driving Tips

Winter in Canada is very cold and there is a significant amount of snowfall. When traveling through scenic, rural areas, the road conditions can be treacherous and help is often hours away. For your safety, remember the following when driving during the winter months:

  • Plan trips in advance and check road reports before departing.
  • Inform a friend or family member of your plans, route and destination.
  • Dress warmly and in layers. If you get too warm, layers can be removed.
  • Let your vehicle warm up before leaving to reduce condensation on the windshield and windows.
  • Remove snow from your vehicle, particularly around lights and signals so other drivers can see you.

You should also prepare an emergency safety kit to keep in your car. The kit should include:

  • Non-perishable food like granola bars or chocolate
  • Water bottles
  • A blanket
  • Extra clothing and boots
  • A first aid kit
  • A candle and matches
  • A flashlight
  • Map

You may also want to put a bag of kitty litter, sand or salt in your trunk to help in the event that you get stuck in the snow. Make sure that your jumper cables and road flares or warning lights are in good working order before leaving home.

What to Do if You Get Stuck

Spinning off into the ditch or colliding with another vehicle is a very real risk when driving on slippery, winter roads in Canada. It is important that you know who to call and what to do while waiting for help to arrive.

The very first thing you need to do is take a deep breath and avoid panicking. Staying calm after an accident or getting stuck on the side of the road is essential to helping you think clearly and take the right steps. Once you have stopped moving and made sure that everyone is safe and uninjured, take these steps:

  • Remember to dress appropriately before leaving the car. Temperatures in Canada can be dangerously cold in the winter. Exposure to the cold can be deadly. Put on your hat, gloves, scarf, etc. before getting out.
  • Set up road flares, turn on hazard lights. It is crucial that other vehicles are able to see to prevent further accidents.
  • Call for help. The emergency number in Canada is also 911. Even if you don't need emergency assistance, you'll want to let the authorities know where you are and also get information about local towing companies if needed.
  • Wait inside your vehicle. It's important to stay off the road, particularly if it is snowing and visibility is low. Make sure to move around periodically to keep muscles from getting stiff – remember, it may take a while for help to arrive.
  • Run your car occasionally. You should turn the car on for warmth for about 10 minutes every hour. Make sure that your exhaust pipe is not covered by snow first.

These tips are important, whether you are waiting for emergency services or a tow truck. If you know it is going to be a while before help arrives, keep the kids entertained while also carefully observing your surrounds by playing a game of "I Spy".

Using these tips during your winter vacation to Canada will help ensure that your memories are filled with fun and happiness.


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