Community Column by Don Butt (December 2016)

Town of Mono, ON (Don Butt) Well it’s that time of the year again, meaning getting ready for winter driving.

If you have not already done it, it’s time to prepare your car or truck for winter. Whether you do it yourself or have your mechanic do it, it is extremely important. Now is also the time to put on your snow tires and fill up your washer fluid. Use a high rated fluid that is good to at least 40 degrees below. There is nothing worse than driving on a busy highway and having your washer freeze up!

At this time of year, one needs to change the way you drive. Conditions are not the same as summer so you need to adjust to changing conditions. Generally, drive slower and watch for icy patches or snow covered sections. You cannot see “black ice” but it often occurs on bridges or roads running close to water. Also watch your speed and control when temperatures are just below freezing or cold wind blows across the roadway. Keep your car clear of fresh snow (remember the roof!) and make sure windows are clear for all around visibility.

We would like to mention at this time that in bad weather, dark cars are more visible and white cars or light beige cars are hard to see, especially in fog, snowing or drifting conditions. I know this will not be popular with many people but just saying! Carry an emergency kit in your car and don’t forget a blanket. These kits are available at all different prices at Canadian Tire and Automotive stores.

Safety Tip – Steer smoothly and gently for lane changes. A gradual maneuver will reduce risk of grip loss especially on snow rutted roads. (this tip comes to you from Doug Annette and the Skid Control School at Oakville,ON) www.skidcontrolschool.com

Phone Nos. (a list of valuable numbers to have)
For all emergencies – 911
To report non-emergency incidents or bad drivers 1-800-310-1122
Or by cell phone only *677

Road Watch
To report unsafe driving behaviour contact OPP Communications Centre:
*OPP (*677) on your Cell or
1-888-310-1122 on your Landline.
If you prefer a paper form, our forms are available at Mono Plaza and OPP at Primrose. Please use them, the life you may save could be your own or a loved one.

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; contact him here.