1. Get your vehicle ready for winter in the fall.
  2. Install four matching winter tires before the snow falls.
  3. Pack an emergency kit.
  4. Learn and practice winter driving techniques before you need them.
  5. Plan your trip, check road and weather conditions.
  6. Remove all snow from your vehicle before each trip.
  7. Give yourself extra travel time in bad weather.
  8. Avoid using overdrive and cruise control on slippery roads.
  9. Travel with a fully charged cell phone.
  10. SLOW DOWN and wear your seatbelt.

What to do if you get trapped in a storm

  • Don't do any heavy lifting or shoveling in the bitter cold – it can kill.
  • Make sure your tailpipe isn't blocked by snow to prevent carbon monoxide from getting into your vehicle.
  • If your vehicle is not at risk of being hit by other drivers, stay inside. Your car will provide you with shelter. Give yourself a good supply of fresh air by keeping a window open slightly. Choose the window that is most sheltered from the wind.
  • Run your motor as little as possible -- only enough to stay warm (about 10 minutes per hour). 
  • Use a survival candle for heat instead of relying on your vehicle's heater.
  • You can lose up to 60 per cent of your body heat through your head – so make sure you wear a hat.
  • Set up warning lights or flares.
  • Overusing your headlights may run your battery low. Rely on other sources of light, such as a dome light.
  • Exercise your arms and legs often.
  • Stay awake.
  • Watch for traffic or searchers.

Credit: Transport Canada and the Canadian Automobile Association

Emergency kit

You should also keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. That kit should include:

  • Ice scraper and brush
  • Shovel
  • Sand or kitty litter
  • Blankets, winter boots, gloves and hats, extra clothes
  • Flashlight

Watch Catherine Lathem's video report for more items you should keep in your vehicle.