Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Capsule Tips are easy-to-use reminders about winter driving safety for workers. Simply copy and paste
the text to a staff email, and/or to internal newsletters, memos, and your intranet (if you have one). You
can also post to bulletin boards in lunchrooms and other locations frequented by staff. Each Capsule Tip
focuses on a specific aspect of winter driving safety.
Contents
Tip 1: Think you know all about winter? ....................................................................................................... 1
Tip 2: Preparing your vehicle for winter ....................................................................................................... 2
Tip 3: Winter tire specs ................................................................................................................................. 3
Tip 4: Survival/emergency checklist.............................................................................................................. 4
Tip 5: Preparing to drive ............................................................................................................................... 5
Tip 6: Driving in winter .................................................................................................................................. 6
Tip 7: Driving in rainy weather ...................................................................................................................... 7
Tip 8: Driving in foggy weather ..................................................................................................................... 8
Tip 9: Driving in snow ................................................................................................................................... 9
Tip 10: Driving on icy roads ......................................................................................................................... 10
Tip 11: For Supervisors – winter dangers ................................................................................................... 11
Disclaimer. This document does not take the place of professional occupational health and safety advice and is not guaranteed to meet the requirements of
applicable laws, regulations, and rules, including workplace health and safety laws and motor vehicle and traffic laws. The members of the Winter Driving Safety
Alliance and their respective employees, officers, directors or agents (collectively the “WDSA”) assume no liability for or responsibility for any loss or damage
suffered or incurred by any person arising from or in any way connected with the use of or reliance upon the information contained in this document including,
without limitation, any liability for loss or damage arising from the negligence or negligent misrepresentation of any of the WDSA in any way connected with the
information contained in this document. The information provided in this document is provided on an “as is” basis. WDSA does not guarantee, warrant, or make any
representation as to the quality, accuracy, completeness, timeliness, appropriateness, or suitability of any of the information provided, and disclaims all statutory or
other warranties, terms, or obligations of any kind arising from the use of or reliance upon the information provided, and assumes no obligation to update the
information provided or advise on future developments concerning the topics mentioned. (09-2014)
Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 1: Think you know all about winter?
Winter can be beautiful – especially when a fresh layer of snow covers the ground. But if you drive for
work, that beauty means danger on the road. Freezing temperatures, rain, snow, black ice, fog, and
reduced daylight hours are just a few of the elements that winter throws our way – sometimes in a
single workday. In fact, during the winter months, the number of casualty crashes due to driving too fast
for the conditions nearly doubles from almost 121 in October to over 234 in December.*
If you drive for work full time or part time, make sure you’re up to the challenge:

Prepare yourself: Decide if you really have to go. If you do, plan your route ahead of time by
listening to the radio or visiting DriveBC.ca. Give yourself lots of time so you’re not rushing to your
destination.

Prepare your vehicle: Use four matched winter tires with the winter logo and check your tire
pressure at least once a month. Do a pre-winter check-up on your vehicle and report any concerns
to your Supervisor. Keep your gas tank full to avoid condensation and the freezing of your fuel lines.
Carry a winter survival kit.

Drive for the conditions: Allow extra time for work travel so you’re not rushing. Reduce your speed
and increase the distance between you and vehicle in front. Avoid sudden movements – accelerate
and brake slowly. Learn how to drive for different conditions like snow, ice, rain, and fog.

If you become stuck or stranded, stay in your vehicle for warmth and safety and follow company
procedures.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
*(ICBC Casualty Crashes by Contributing Factor. Driving Too Fast for the Conditions. 2009 – 2013 Police Reported Data)
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Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 2: Preparing your vehicle for winter
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of workplace deaths in British Columbia. During the winter
months, the number of casualty crashes due to driving too fast for the conditions nearly doubles from
almost 121 in October to over 234 in December.*
Knowing how to drive for the conditions is crucial to increasing your safety on the road. But just as
important is a work vehicle equipped to deal with the harsh elements. A few simple steps to winterize
your ride could make a difference to your safety.

Get a Grip: Install four matched winter tires with the mountain snowflake symbol
and tread of no less than 3.5 mm. Tires marked with an M+S are legally acceptable
but do not provide the same degree of performance as a mountain snowflake tire in
severe winter conditions. The grooves in winter tires help to divert snow and water
away from your tires. That means better traction and control on the road. Check your
tire pressure at least once a month or more (tire pressure drops in colder conditions.)

Give your vehicle a winter check-up: Make sure the battery, brakes, lights, fuses, cooling/heating
systems, exhaust/electrical systems, belts and hoses are in top shape.

Before each trip, do a ‘circle check’ (walk around your vehicle to inspect its condition and possible
reversing hazards).

Review your vehicle’s maintenance record. Take it in for repair if needed and report any concerns
to your supervisor.

Keep your gas tank full to avoid condensation that can cause fuel lines to freeze.

Equip your work vehicle with a Winter Survival Kit. Recommended items include: an approved
high-visibility vest, non-perishable food, blankets, first aid supplies, windshield scraper, snow brush,
spare tire, wheel wrench & jack, shovel & traction mat, sand or kitty litter, fuel line antifreeze, flares
& matches or a lighter, tire chains & gloves, flashlight & extra batteries, battery jumper cables,
sandbags for extra weight, extra clothing & footwear. Do it now, before you’re caught off guard.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
*(ICBC Casualty Crashes by Contributing Factor. Driving Too Fast for the Conditions. 2009 – 2013 Police Reported Data)
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Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 3: Winter tire specs
Whether you drive for work full time or part time, your vehicle is your ‘workplace on
wheels’. Winterize it to maximize your safety. One of the first lines of attack is installing
four winter tires – each with the mountain snowflake symbol and a tread of no less than
3.5 mm.
Tires marked with an M+S offer better traction than summer tires, but are less effective
than mountain snowflake tires on snow and ice, and in cold weather.
Make sure all four tires match. If you use different types of tires, instead of four matched ones, it could
cause your vehicle to fishtail.
Why Winter Tires? Winter tires outperform other types of tires during all winter conditions once the
weather drops below 7 degrees Celsius. At that point, the rubber in all-season tires begins to harden
resulting in less elasticity and traction on the road. In contrast, the grooves in winter tires are about 30
per cent deeper than all-season tires, so they grip the road more effectively.
Some people think they can get away with all-seasons by relieving the tire pressure to offer more
contact with the road. But there are serious risks. An underinflated tire can be too flexible and could
damage internal components in the wheel or cause a tire blowout.
Visit DriveBC.ca for info on winter tire requirements for various highways. You’ll also find chain-up
instructions. Note: Always make sure your chains fit your winter tires and practice using them before
you get caught in a snowstorm.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
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Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 4: Survival/emergency checklist
You’ve made sure your work vehicle is up to the challenge of winter roads. But even the most prepared
drivers can get caught in treacherous conditions. Don’t get caught off-guard. Equip your ride with a
Winter Survival Kit. Suggested items include:
Approved, high-visibility vest
Non-perishable food
Blankets and first aid supplies
Windshield scraper and snowbrush
Spare tire, wheel wrench and jack
Shovel and traction mat
Sand or kitty litter
Fuel line antifreeze
Flares and matches (or lighter)
Tire chains and gloves
Flashlight and extra batteries
Battery jumper cables
Sandbags for extra weight
Extra clothing and footwear
Fully-charged cell phone and charger
If you’re travelling outside urban areas, ensure your kit also contains:
Sleeping bag
Candles
High-energy food
Empty can for melting snow
Tow rope
Remember, if you get stuck or stranded, don’t panic. Avoid overexertion and exposure. Stay in your
vehicle. Open your window slightly for fresh air. Use a survival candle for heat (if safe). Call for roadside
assistance. If it’s an emergency call 911.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
4
Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 5: Preparing to drive
During winter, the risk of motor vehicle incidents jumps significantly. The best way to stay safe is to
Know Before You Go. That means checking road and weather conditions BEFORE you get behind the
wheel. A few websites can help you plan your route:

DriveBC.ca for the latest road and weather conditions, highway cams, and delay information.

B.C. Weather Warnings: Call toll-free 1.800.550.4997 for 24-hour B.C. road info.
If possible, avoid driving when road and weather conditions are bad. If you have to drive, consider
adjusting your work schedule until the weather improves. Even an hour or two can make a difference.
As well, make sure you’re following the company’s ‘Working Alone Procedures’.
Other tips:

Plan to avoid roads that may become dangerous during bad weather.

Plan to head out early to give yourself lots of time. Learn how to brake safely, get out of a skid, and
know how your vehicle generally handles in winter weather.

Bring warm clothing (winter boots, coat, gloves, and hat) in case you have to leave your work vehicle.

Have an emergency survival kit and an emergency plan. If you get stuck, follow the company’s
procedure. Stay with the vehicle for safety and warmth. If you have a cell, call 911 if it’s an
emergency. Otherwise, call for roadside assistance.

By taking a few minutes to plan your route prevents problems when you’re on the road. It reduces
your stress. It increases your safety. Simply put – it’s smart driving.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
5
Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 6: Driving in winter
Winter is Mother Nature’s Ultimate Road Test. Whether you drive for work full time, or as part of your
job, it’s important that you and your vehicle are up to the challenge. Remember, when you’re behind
the wheel, driving is your only job. Here are a few easy tips to ensure your workday remains safe:

Give yourself extra time. Adjust your work schedule, if possible, so you’re not rushing.

Drop your speed. The posted speed limit is for ideal road conditions. In winter, slow it down - no
matter how skilled you are as a driver.

Follow at a safe distance. It takes longer to stop on a slippery road. Leave at least four seconds
between you and the vehicle in front.

Watch for black ice. Shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses freeze sooner than other areas – even in
sunshine. Slow down. Don’t be fooled. Black ice is invisible.

Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and turning. Do everything gently and gradually to avoid
spinning your tires or vehicle.

Know how to handle a skid. If you begin to skid, ease off the brake or accelerator and steer
smoothly in the direction you want to go.

Follow the company’s safety policies and safe work procedures. Help out your co-workers by
reporting hazards such as poor weather, vehicle, or road conditions to your supervisor.

If you’re stuck or stranded, follow the company’s procedures. Stay with your vehicle for warmth
and safety. Call for roadside assistance if needed. If it’s an emergency, call 911.

Have an emergency plan and carry a Winter Survival Kit in your vehicle. You’ll find details at
ShiftintoWinter.ca.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
6
Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 7: Driving in rainy weather
‘Rain, Rain, Go Away’ may be possible in stories – but not in British Columbia where driving in wet
weather is a regular part of the workday. Don’t be fooled. Rain can be just as dangerous as snow or ice.
Reduced visibility on your windshield is just the beginning. Add colder temperatures, reduced daylight
hours, sleet, spray, and flooding – and your driving skills will be put to the test. Follow these tips for a
safer ride:

First things first, windshield wipers are your first defense against rain. If they are old or brittle
replace them.

Lighten up. Use your headlights even in light rain or overcast conditions. They will help you see the
road, and allow other drivers to see you.

Be brake-aware. If possible, when slowing down, take your foot off the accelerator instead of
relying on your brakes. If you pass through deep water, check your brakes afterwards. They could be
saturated. Driving very slowly while braking lightly will help to dry them out.

Middle lanes are best. Water often pools in outside lanes.

Oil and water – a nasty mix. Be extra careful immediately after it rains. Water blends with oil and
other deposits on the road to form a dangerous skid risk.

Get back. Stay well back from large trucks or buses. Their large tires spray. If you have to pass a
large vehicle, do so safely.

Hydroplaning or aquaplaning. This usually happens at speeds over 60 km per hour when water on
the road gathers in front of your vehicle faster than your tires can push it away. In less than a second
your vehicle could lose contact with the road and slide out of your lane. If your vehicle is
hydroplaning, do not turn or brake suddenly. This could throw your car into a skid. Ease your foot off
of the gas until the vehicle slows and you can feel the road again. If you need to brake, do it gently.
If your car has anti-lock brakes, then brake normally. Your vehicle’s computer will automatically
pump the brakes more effectively than a person can do.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
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Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 8: Driving in foggy weather
When fog appears, visibility can seriously deteriorate in a matter of seconds. Even creeping along at 10
to 15 kilometres per hour can be dangerous. Always consider whether you have to drive or if you can
delay your trip and adjust your work schedule. Even one or two hours can make a difference to visibility.
If you do have to drive, follow these basic guidelines:

Always plan your work route ahead of time. Stick to well-travelled roads. Check current road
conditions via local radio or www.drivebc.ca.

Slow down! Watch your speedometer. Fog creates an illusion of slow motion when you may actually
be speeding.

Drive with your headlights on. Use fog lights if you have them.

Your natural response may be to switch on your high beams. Don’t. Fog reflects the light back to
you affecting your visibility.

Use your wipers and defrosters as needed for maximum visibility.

Use the right edge of the road or painted road markings as a guide.

Avoid stopping on a freeway or a busy road. If your vehicle stalls, turn on your flashers and move
away from the vehicle to avoid injury

Visibility may be low when driving in fog, but the rules for driving are clear. Whether you drive for
work full time or part time, know how to stay safe in fog.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
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Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 9: Driving in snow
Cold weather and snow can make even the simplest driving task difficult. You simply can’t predict how
your vehicle – or other vehicles – will react once the white stuff hits.
Some Cold, Hard Facts

Hard-packed snow on a road can be as slippery as ice.

Snow can be rutted and full of hard tracks and snow ‘gullies’ that can throw your vehicle off track.

Wet snow can make for slushy roads. Heavy slush can build up in the wheel wells and affect your
ability to steer.

Slush and spray from other vehicles can cause sudden loss of visibility.

What can you do to ensure your ride is safe? To start with, always follow the general rules of winter
driving. Before you head out, check road conditions on the radio or visit DriveBC.ca. Stick to welltravelled routes.

Before driving, sweep snow and ice from all parts of the vehicle – mirrors, lights, wheel wells, hood,
and windshield. Fully defrost all windows before pulling away.

On the road, reduce your speed. Keep your eyes on the road, and your hands on the wheel to deal
with sudden slush or spray. Give yourself plenty of distance from the vehicle in front – at least four
seconds. When approaching an intersection, really slow down. Just a few inches of packed snow can
make stopping a challenge.

Stuck or stranded? Follow the company procedures. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. If
you have a cell, call for roadside assistance. In an emergency call 911.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
9
Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 10: Driving on icy roads
When the temperature drops below freezing, roads can become icy, making driving difficult. Besides
being careful not to slide yourself, you have to watch for others sliding into your path. Learn how to
drive on ice before you get behind the wheel. Don’t learn by accident. Here are a few tips to increase
winter driving safety:

Watch for black ice – a thin layer of transparent ice that forms when the temperature is near
freezing. How can you tell it’s there? Often, you can’t. But if there’s ice build-up on your windshield,
it’s a clue that black ice is probably on the road. Another clue is sections of the road that appear
black and shiny. Also, slow down when approaching shaded areas, bridges and overpasses. These
sections freeze sooner than others.

If you begin skidding, gradually release pressure from whichever pedal you’re using (brake or
accelerator). Smoothly steer in the direction you want the car to go. Smooth steering is the key to
recovering from a skid.

Slow down – especially when approaching an intersection. It takes longer to stop on ice. As well,
watch for vehicles sliding through the intersection. When starting up, accelerate slowly to avoid
spinning your wheels.

Watch for hills. Pick a path that provides the most traction – unpacked snow or powder provide a
better grip. Observe the cars ahead of you to see where they’re spinning their wheels or sliding so
you can avoid those spots.

Finally, wear sturdy shoes or boots with good traction. Maintaining three points of contact when
entering or exiting your work vehicle will keep you on your feet when steps and the ground below
are icy.
Know before you go.
Before heading out in challenging conditions decide if the trip can be delayed.
If you must go:

Visit DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for tips on ways to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and how to drive safely
on winter roads.
Whether you’re driving for work or pleasure, the above tips will increase your winter driving safety. Feel
free to forward them to friends and family.
10
Winter Driving Safety Capsule Tips
Tip 11: For Supervisors – winter dangers
“Winter.” Here in B.C. it can mean rain, snow, or simply colder temperatures. It’s a dangerous time to be
on the roads. In fact, most worker time-loss injuries related to driving happen between October and
February.
As a supervisor, you’re responsible for the safety of all your workers when driving – whether they’re in
company vehicles or their own vehicles, and whether they’re on the road all day or just one or two times
a week. Follow these reminders to help keep your workers safe:

Make sure your workers are prepared to drive in winter conditions. Have they had training on how
to drive in winter conditions? Are their vehicles equipped for winter conditions? Distribute the
winter tip sheet “What Workers Need to Know” to every worker.

Make sure you’re prepared for winter. Download and review the tip sheet “What Supervisors Need
to Know.”

If weather conditions are bad or worsening, do not let workers set off. Cancel, re-schedule or reroute trips as necessary. Check DriveBC.ca for current road conditions.

Make sure workers understand and follow your driving-related safe work procedures and working
alone procedures.

Visit Driving for Work on the Shift into Winter website for easy, ready-to-use resources for you and
your workers. You’ll find tip sheets, email reminders and other items to help keep safe winter
driving top of mind.
You set the tone for safety. Show your commitment to safe winter driving, on and off the job.
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