Here’s How Ontario Will Make Winter Driving Easier
Published November 29, 2018 at 10:19 pm
When winter really gets here, as in when a ton of snow comes down, it’s going to be a struggle to drive in that weather. But the provincial government has announced a solution that may help.
When winter really gets here, as in when a ton of snow comes down, it’s going to be a struggle to drive in that weather. But the provincial government has announced a solution that may help.
In this recent press release, the Ontario Minister of Transportation announced that drivers can now keep track of where snow plows will be to better plan their routes, through a website called Ontario 511.
“Keeping Ontario’s highways as safe as possible during winter weather conditions is a top priority for our government,” said Minister Jeff Yurek. “Winter is coming, snow has already fallen in many parts of the province. Before heading out, check Ontario 511 for local highway information and to track snow plows in your area.”
Track My Plow is now available on Ontario 511, so drivers can track the location of snow plows and salt trucks. Before the end of this year, the Ontario 511 website will also provide drivers with Waze publicly reported incidents, traffic jams and weather hazards. Ontario 511 can be accessed via Twitter (@511Ontario), phone (dial 5-1-1), or web (ontario.ca/511).
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As for some practical advise, drivers should install four winter tires for better traction, handling and breaking in snow and ice. They should also ensure their vehicles are winter-ready by getting a vehicle maintenance check-up and assembling a winter survival kit including items like a flashlight, blanket and shovel.
Drivers should also give themselves extra time when travelling in the winter to reach their destinations safely, and if the weather is bad, postpone their trip until conditions improve. If driving in poor weather, drivers should watch for parts of the road that look black and shiny as it may be icy.
Over 9 million litres of anti-icing liquid were used in the 2017-2018 season on provincial highways to help prevent ice and snowpack from forming on the road surface.
Are you ready for the season of winter driving?
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