Community Column by Don Butt (January 2013)

(Town of Mono, ON) For anyone considering buying a used car, please consider asking the seller about daytime running lights (lights that stay on all the time when you drive). Many cars come with them but used cars from other provinces or some states may not. Since 1990 all new cars made in Ontario must have them but foreign cars may not. Be sure to check before you buy. Driving in these often dull days and especially late afternoon or at dusk, I have noticed how much easier it is to see cars with these lights on, especially grey or dull coloured cars. I believe it is law in some states of the U.S. that these lights are mandatory. Of course I always promote ABS brakes on cars and trucks so please consider these as well. Anything that can promote safety on the road is a blessing. Remember that running lights are on the front only, the taillights do not go on. In bad weather or at night use full lights.

On a different note, my friends at OPP Dufferin have informed us that we are having a rash of  “break and enter” cases in the County right now. Please make sure doors and windows are securely locked and items put away. Let your neighbour know if you are going to be away. Outside motion lights are a deterrent at night and I now have motion lights inside as well. Be sure these are near an entrance door to be more effective. Check with your Community Safety Officer for other steps you can take.

Safety Tip
Brake while the car is still straight, before steering for turns or curves. Brake early so vehicle speed is stabilized through the corner. (This tip comes to you from Doug Annette and the Skid Control School at Oakville, Ont. www.skidcontrolschool.com)

Road Watch
For those who do not have access to a computer, our forms are still available at Mono Plaza and OPP at Primrose. Otherwise use our web site on the Internet.

Don Butt is currently the Public Relations and Media Contact for the Mono Community Policing Committee. If you would like more information on anything covered in Don’s Column or would like to see a topic of public interest or safety covered; post a comment below.