SAFETY

KEEPING OUR ROADS SAFE IN WINTER

Winter comes with a host of challenges on our roads! To ensure everyone’s safety, it is important to be doubly cautious. • Before hitting the road, whether or not you are pressed for time, be sure to remove all snow and ice from your car. • At night and during snowfalls, vehicles and bikes must be visible – be sure to have your headlights and lights on. We all have a role to play. Together, we can keep our roads safe! GETTING AROUND SAFELY IN WINTER

PEDESTRIANS

The sun sets earlier in winter, so you must be extra vigilant. Make sure you are visible by wearing bright coloured clothing or using reflective tape. You must use the sidewalks at all times. If there are none, walk on the edge of the road in the opposite direction of traffic, to see oncoming vehicles. You must cross streets at intersections and crosswalks. Remember that snow banks and storms reduce motorists’ visibility; make sure you establish eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.

CYCLISTS

Do you use your bike in winter? It is important to use equipment adapted to winter conditions, in particular having the appropriate tires, a good braking system and adapting the height of your seat to put your foot on the ground quickly if necessary. As daylight time is short, don’t forget to equip your bike with lights and headlights to ride safely. You need a white light in front to see and a red one in back to be seen.

BE PREPARED TO BE SELF-SUFFICIENT FOR AT LEAST 72 HOURS

This is how long it could take emergency workers to get to you, or for disrupted utility services to be restored.

RECOMMENDED ITEMS FOR A BASIC EMERGENCY KIT:

•Drinking water – two litres per person per day, for at least three days • Enough non-perishable foods to last at least three days • Manual can opener • Lighter and matches • Flashlight with spare batteries • Battery-operated radio with spare batteries • First-aid kit and personal medication required • Food, water, medications and more for your pets • Candles

Customize your kit to suit your needs. Place these items in a bag or other container ahead of time.