You should always exercise good business judgement when offering delivery services to ensure your safety and those of other Canadian residents!

Winter in Canada can provide certain challenges to road safety, depending on where you live. Wet, snowy or icy roads can cause your vehicle to lose traction. If you do not take extra precautions, this may increase your risk of being in a road accident.

Snow

Canada is known for snow – with temperatures regularly dropping to as low as -50 degrees Celsius in some provinces. Snow provides a unique set of hazards, in particular:

1. Visibility – your visibility is greatly reduced during snow events
2. Traction – When braking, snow can cause a reduction in traction, increasing your braking distance significantly
3. Vehicle Issues – the extreme cold can have an adverse effect on your engine or components

Black ice

Black ice can be very dangerous as it can remain on the road even on fine days. Black ice is formed when surface moisture or dew freezes on the road surface. Take particular care during the dawn and dusk periods when black ice can be quite prevalent.

Tips For Driving In Wet, Snowy Or Icy Conditions

1. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and you complete a safety check prior to commencing your delivery run. 
2. Always adjust your speed to match conditions. If it is wet or icy, reduce your speed to increase your reaction time.
3. Watch out for icy roads in shaded or low-lying areas, even if the sun is out.
4. Drive with your low beams on. Only use your fog lights if you are driving in fog, mist or other low-visibility situations.
5. Be aware of any wildlife, as many incidents occur when avoiding animals on slippery roads.
6. Increase the distance between yourself and any other vehicles. Braking in slippery conditions is less effective than when in the dry.
7. Accelerate slowly and brake early – this gives you more time to deal with any loss of traction that may occur.
8. Be prepared for any road closures due to frozen roads – and follow any directions from road patrol or police officers.
9. If anti-icing material has been spread on a road (such as grit) attempt to drive on it as much as possible – try to avoid driving in existing tire marks. Remember though, this does not guarantee your safety, so do not increase your speed. 
10. Always bring a winter survival kit, consisting of heavy jackets, blankets, food supplies and a flashlight with spare batteries. If you break down, help can take a while to arrive. It is important to always be prepared for an extended wait in your car. 

Want some more information on winter driving? Click here for the Government of Canada’s ‘Driving safely in winter’ page.