For more information, please contact: Erika Miller, Public and Media Relations Specialist C 204 797.4326 • E erikam@caamanitoba.com

GET YOUR RIDE READY FOR WINTER Winterizing can save you time and headaches in the near (and cold) future

Winnipeg, November 6, 2017 – As the temperature drops to -19 Celsius overnight tonight, Manitobans will find

out very quickly if their vehicle and battery are ready for winter.

“Tonight’s frozen temperatures might test your vehicle’s ability to turn over in the morning, especially if your

battery is around three to five years old,” says Erika Miller, public and media relations specialist for CAA

Manitoba. “In cold temperatures, it can take almost twice as much of your battery’s charge to start your engine.

Now is the time to get your battery tested and winterize your vehicle, if you haven’t already.”

Drivers are encouraged to give their car a good look over and follow four guidelines for a winter-worthy vehicle

to cut down on potential issues.

Four guidelines for a winter-worthy vehicle:

1. Ready your ride - Test your battery and block heater, install winter tires, and top up antifreeze

and windshield wiper fluids with temperature-appropriate solutions.

2. Ensure you can see safely – The sun rises and sets earlier in winter, which means our daily

commute is generally in the dark. Visit your local Approved Auto Repair Services location to

check and replace any headlights, taillights, signal lights or hazard lights and remember to turn

them on before you head out. If need be, install new wiper blades to help clear your windshield

effectively in snowy, wet weather.

3. Prevent frozen locks – Thanks to keyless electronic entry, people may not need to use their

physical locks until their doors won’t seem to open. Don’t get caught in the cold! Inject lock de-

icer lubricant in the locks on your doors and use a spray lubricant on trunk and hood seals to

help safeguard against being stuck outside. Remember to reapply the de-icer after washing your

vehicle or a particularly rainy or snowy day.

4. Be prepared with a roadside emergency kit – Ensure your kit has enough food and

water for the number of passengers you’re travelling with, along with tools,

weatherproof emergency flares, and blankets. Prepackaged emergency kits are available at any

CAA store.

CAA Manitoba reminds motorists that when weather changes, driving conditions can change quickly too. Black

ice can develop on bridges and overpasses when winds pick up. Slowing down and driving to conditions, and

keeping a safe stopping distance between cars can help prevent a costly collision.

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