Provincial police are stressing the importance of making sure vehicles are winter-ready and drivers are cautious behind the wheel.
Cst. Jamie Bydeley said there are some habits drivers can adopt in order to possibly prevent collisions.
"We get quite used to summer driving, nice dry pavement, nice tacky/ sticky tires but in the winter time with the colder months, that all changes," he said. "People need to adjust their driving, especially when we see snow, we need to go slow … and keep a proper following distance behind the vehicle in front of you."
Aside from driving habits, Bydeley said drivers should ensure their vehicles' tires have enough tread and air, that the windshield washer fluid is topped up, and that all of the snow has been cleared from the windows.
"The Highway Traffic Act requires that all of the windows of your vehicle be properly cleared and not obstructed, and we've all seen the little patch on the windshield with somebody that has gone and scraped that little patch off, that is a ticketable offence," he said.
If a vehicle ends up in a ditch during the winter, Bydeley said an emergency kit with a flashlight or reflective gear, a blanket, and some snacks and water will come in handy. It's also good practice to make sure the gas tank has sufficient fuel to keep passengers warm while waiting for assistance.
-With files from Stephanie Chaves
