Winter in Saskatoon isn’t just a season—it’s an experience. The snow, ice, and freezing temperatures create a magical landscape, but they also make driving a challenge. As a lifelong Saskatchewan resident and someone who understands the importance of a dependable vehicle, I know firsthand how essential it is to stay safe on our icy roads. Whether you're navigating downtown Saskatoon or heading out on Highway 11, these tips will help you tackle winter driving with confidence.
- Equip Your Vehicle with Winter Tires
Winter tires are non-negotiable in Saskatchewan. All-season tires might seem like a cost-effective option, but they’re no match for icy or snow-packed roads. Winter tires are designed with softer rubber and deeper treads, giving you better traction and shorter stopping distances when temperatures dip below 7°C.
Pro tip: Make sure your tires are properly inflated—cold weather causes air pressure to drop, which can affect handling and fuel efficiency.
- Check Your Vehicle’s Winter Readiness
Before the first snowfall, take time to winterize your vehicle. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Battery: Ensure it’s fully charged and in good condition. Cold weather can drain a weak battery.
- Fluids: Top up antifreeze, windshield washer fluid (use the winter-grade kind), and oil.
- Wipers: Replace worn wiper blades to handle snow and sleet effectively.
- Lights: Check that all headlights, taillights, and signals are working, especially as daylight hours grow shorter.
- Emergency Kit: Stock your vehicle with essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, blankets, non-perishable snacks, and a small shovel.
- Slow Down and Leave Extra Space
One of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe on icy roads is to drive slower than usual. Speed limits are set for ideal conditions—not for icy or snow-covered roads.
In the winter, braking distances can double or even triple compared to dry conditions. Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. This extra room gives you more time to react if you need to stop suddenly.
- Learn to Handle Skids
Even the best drivers can find themselves in a skid on icy roads. If your vehicle starts to skid:
- Don’t panic.
- Ease off the accelerator.
- If your rear wheels are sliding, gently steer in the direction you want to go.
- Avoid slamming on the brakes—this can make the skid worse.
- Be Mindful of Black Ice
Black ice is a driver’s worst enemy because it’s nearly invisible. It often forms in shaded areas, on bridges, and near intersections. A good rule of thumb is to assume ice is present when temperatures are around freezing, even if the road looks clear.
- Use 4WD or AWD Wisely
While four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) can improve traction, they won’t make you invincible. These systems help with acceleration, but they don’t necessarily improve braking or cornering on ice. Drive cautiously, even if your vehicle is equipped with advanced features.
- Plan Ahead
Check road conditions before you leave, especially if you’re traveling outside the city. Websites like the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline provide up-to-date information on road closures and conditions. If the weather looks too severe, consider delaying your trip.
- Clear Snow and Ice Before Driving
Take the time to fully clear snow and ice from your windshield, windows, headlights, and taillights. Driving with limited visibility is not only dangerous but also illegal. Don’t forget to remove snow from the roof of your vehicle—it can slide down and block your view or blow onto other vehicles.
- Avoid Cruise Control
Cruise control is a fantastic feature, but it’s not ideal for icy roads. If your vehicle hits a patch of ice, cruise control can cause your wheels to spin faster, leading to a loss of control. Stick to manual control during the winter months.
- Drive a Reliable Vehicle
Finally, having a reliable vehicle makes all the difference. Whether it’s a rugged Chevy Silverado to plow through deep snow or a compact Chevrolet Trailblazer equipped with advanced safety features, your vehicle should be up to the task of handling Saskatoon’s winter roads. Regular maintenance and a vehicle you trust are key to staying safe.
Winter driving in Saskatoon can be intimidating, but with preparation, caution, and the right mindset, you can navigate the season safely. Remember, there’s no such thing as being too prepared when it comes to our Saskatchewan winters. Drive safe, and if you ever have questions about winterizing your vehicle or upgrading to a Chevy built for these conditions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Here’s to a safe winter season!
