Durham Region residents encouraged to drive with caution this winter

Whitby, Ontario – In support of Durham Vision Zero, a collaborative initiative to promote road safety, the Regional Municipality of Durham would like to remind residents to drive with care when facing winter driving conditions.

During the winter, Regional Works depots are active and ready to respond to winter events. Preventative techniques are deployed throughout Durham Region, including anti-icing methods, which involves applying brine to dry roads before a storm. Prior to a winter storm, pre-wetted salt is applied to the roads – this means brine is sprayed onto the salt at the spinners. Pre-wetting helps keep salt on the road instead of bouncing off.

During a winter storm more than 70 pieces of winter maintenance equipment may be  deployed. Staff are highly trained and equipped with up-to-date technologies, trucks and other winter maintenance materials. Snowplow operators must travel at reduced speeds, so it is important for drivers to be patient and slow down when driving behind them. Although there are many mirrors to help the operator see around the vehicle, visibility is still limited, especially behind the “wing” (the plow blade that extends to the right of the vehicle). It is important that drivers do not pass a snowplow; the road is safer behind the plows.

Residents are encouraged to ensure their vehicles are equipped for winter driving. This includes installing winter-rated tires, which can help improve safety and increase traction on slippery, snow-covered or icy roads. It is also recommended to keep an emergency kit in the trunk of your vehicle with items such as blankets, a shovel, a flashlight, a flare, food and a first-aid kit. Drivers should also use a windshield-washer fluid rated for -40°C or lower. Finally, residents should be sure to check the weather forecasts and driving conditions before going out on the roads. Allow for extra driving time or wait until conditions improve. For those who still need to travel, please slow down and drive carefully. Here are some road safety tips reminders:

For drivers:

• Check the weather forecast before you leave
• Plan extra time for winter travel
• Clean snow and ice off your vehicle completely
• Use your vehicle’s full lighting system in poor visibility
• Adapt your driving to the road and weather conditions
• Reduce your speed
• Avoid distractions
• Leave more space
• Always steer gently
• Proceed with caution

For pedestrians:

• Stay on the sidewalk where possible
• Wear bright coloured and reflective outerwear to be seen
• Try to make eye contact with drivers before stepping onto the road
• Ensure your hat, hood, and scarves do not obstruct your view
• Be cautious around large snowbanks since drivers and plow operators may not be able to see you
• Allow plenty of time to get to your destination

These simple precautions can help reduce winter driving risks to ensure all residents are safe on our roads this winter in support of the Durham Vision Zero initiative. Durham Vision Zero is a long-term plan to ensure the safest possible transportation system that sees no lives lost or serious injuries on Durham’s roadways. Learn more at durham.ca/VisionZero.

To learn more about winter road maintenance, visit durham.ca/RoadMaintenance. 

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For media inquiries, please contact Corporate Communications.