Winter Safety

Winter Driving

• Install four snow tires – don't depend on all-season tires and make sure they are properly inflated, tire pressure decreases as temperatures drop and under inflation reduces grip. In New Brunswick, you are allowed to have studded tires 
  between October 15th and May 1st.
• Scrape the ice and snow from every window and the exterior rear view mirrors, not just a small patch on the windshield. Don't forget to remove snow from headlights and brake lights. Be sure to check the windshield wiper blades.
• In slippery conditions and use your brakes lightly. Remember condensation can freeze on the road causing a layer of nearly invisible black ice. Review how to react in the event of a skid.
• Never drive while impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue
• Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers are buckled-up. Adjust your head rest to protect your neck in case your vehicle is struck from behind.
• Keep your gas tank at least half-full-The extra volume can help reduce moisture problems within your fuel system and it also adds helpful weight to your vehicle.
• Carry warm clothes and an EMERGENCY KIT in case you are stalled or have an accident
• Avoid passing a snowplow in operation. It is extremely dangerous to pass either between or around snowplows, because of reduced visibility caused by whiteout conditions, and the ridge of snow that can be created between plows.
• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you in case you have to brake suddenly on a slippery road.
• Be careful when approaching shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses, as these sections of road freeze much sooner in cold weather and may be slippery, causing you to suddenly lose traction.
• Large trucks and buses can spray moisture or blow snow onto your windshield, leading to a sudden loss of visibility. Always drive defensively, and leave enough space to avoid snow spray.
• Watch out for "black ice" when temperatures are just under or just above freezing.
• Do not use cruise control in slippery conditions.   
     

Safe Heating

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater. # to learn how to prevent portable heater fires in your home this
• Be careful trying to stay warm this winter. Using unsafe heating devices indoors can cause CO poisoning!
• If you’re running a portable generator outside, you need to have a working Carbon Monoxide alarm in your home.
• NEVER use a generator, camp stove, charcoal grill, gasoline or propane heater indoors.
• NEVER heat a home by using the stovetop or oven.
• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents to avoid accidental CO poisoning.
• Use portable heaters with an automatic shut-off to avoid risk of fire if the device tips over. 
     

Power Outage

• Turn down their heat sources and unplug major appliances in your home in advance of power restoration to avoid a surge in demand that has the potential to cause more outages.
• Residents should not approach downed power lines, or trees that are in contact with power lines.
• Never run generators or cook with an open flame, inside a home or the garage, as these activities create carbon monoxide which can become extremely dangerous.
• Never leave candles or lanterns unattended. Take a moment to test the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors.
• Food safety: If you have no power, do not open your freezer or fridge unless it is absolutely necessary. If the door remains closed, a full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours without electricity. These products can be refrozen if ice crystals are still present. All perishable food in a refrigerator without electricity for more than 24 hours should be discarded.
• New Brunswickers with any medical concerns who are affected by power outages are encouraged to call Tele-Care 811.
• n case of power outages, residents are encouraged to check on their neighbours, particularly the elderly, to see if any assistance is required.   
     

Emergency Kit

• An emergency kit should include food, water, batteries, a battery-powered radio, first-aid supplies and any special items such as prescriptions, infant formula, and equipment for people with disabilities.
• Keep water, non-perishable food, and an extra set of warm clothes in the car in case you get stranded during winter weather.
• Emergency Preparedness Guide   
     

Outdoor Tips

• Many people die each year from heart attacks brought on by shoveling snow. Pace yourself & get your neighbors involved.
• Layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than one bulky sweater.
• You lose a great deal of body heat from your head and neck. Cover them well.
• Take breaks in heated buildings (your home, friend or family’s place, public buildings such as malls, libraries, etc.)
• Drink warm fluids but avoid caffeinated beverages or alcohol because they cause your body to lose heat rapidly.