No matter how much you wish it away, the inevitable is bound to happen sooner or later and Alberta drivers will be faced with snow, freezing rain, black ice and cold temperatures. So it's time to prepare your vehicle for driving in these conditions.

"Getting your vehicle in shape for winter should be a priority for everyone," says Jeanette

Espie-Lefebvre, executive director of Alberta Transportation's Traffic Safety Initiative. "Facing the challenges of winter driving is demanding and you don't need your vehicle letting you down."

Winterizing your vehicle helps ensure that it will start and run well. Prepare your car for winter by getting a complete tune-up. Generally, this includes making sure components such as the battery, brakes, ignition, alternator, cooling system, heat and rear defrost, oil, belts, hoses, radiator, exhaust system, windshield wipers and lights are checked and functioning properly.

Additional tips for preparing your vehicle for Alberta's winter weather conditions include:
* Buying heavy-duty windshield wipers if you live in an area that receives heavier snowfall.
* Placing extra weight in the rear of your vehicle to increase traction. Use care if the weight is unsecured as it can shift while moving or if you have to stop suddenly.
* Carrying an emergency kit in the event you find yourself stranded.

For the best traction it is recommended you have snow tires installed. Snow tires are made of softer components and have a unique tread that provides better traction and a more secure road grip. If you are not replacing your tires, make sure they have adequate tread and also check and equalize the tire pressure as it decreases in colder weather. Both under-inflation and over-inflation of tires can reduce their gripping action because the tire tread will not be able to meet the road surface as it is designed to do.

"Preparation is the key to safe winter driving," adds Espie-Lefebvre. "That's why you should take the time to ensure your vehicle is fully prepared to handle Alberta's weather."

In case of an emergency...

For your comfort and safety, in addition to your peace of mind, you should always carry an emergency road kit. This kit should be stored in the trunk of your vehicle and should include:
* axe
* basic tools such as a screwdriver and tire iron
* blanket
* booster cables
* candle in a deep tin
* coins for the telephone
* compass
* distress sign
* emergency food supplies
* extra clothing and footwear
* extra pair of windshield wiper blades
* first aid supplies
* flashlight with extra batteries
* flares or a reflective triangle
* ice scraper and snow brush
* road map
* sand, salt or kitty litter
* shovel
* tow chain or rope
* water container
* water proof matches

For more information about traffic safety, please contact the Traffic Safety Initiative at (780) 422-8839 or visit www.saferoads.com.

Contacts:

Eileen McDonald
Communications
Phone: (780) 422-0842
Email: eileen.mcdonald@gov.ab.ca

Jeanette Espie-Lefebvre
Traffic Safety Initiative
Phone: (780) 427-6588
Email: jeanette.espie-lefebvre@gov.ab.ca