Make sure your vehicle is winter ready

The province is encouraging Nova Scotians to prepare themselves and their vehicles for winter conditions.

“As Nova Scotians, we know our weather can be unpredictable,” Finance and Treasury Board Minister Allan MacMaster said in a Nov. 24 news release. “That’s why it’s so important to be prepared. Just as our maintenance staff and operators are getting ready to keep provincial roads safe, we want to remind Nova Scotians

• Nova Scotia’s Department of Public Works operates more than 400 snowplows and other snow-clearing vehicles, and crews are on the job 24-7.

• Provincial highway cameras are available online so Nova Scotians can see first-hand how weather may be affecting their route.

to get ready for safe winter driving, too.”

Booking a service appointment is the first step in being prepared for snow and ice on the roads, the release

said. Vehicles should have snow tires, antifreeze and an emergency kit.

Other winter driving tips include:

Slow down and leave additional • space between vehicles – it takes more time and distance to brake in adverse conditions.

Maintain a safe distance

• from snowplows to give operators room to do their job.

Keep the gas tank at least

• half full

Plan ahead and include

• extra time for possible delays.

"I encourage everyone to be mindful of winter road conditions, but also the human conditions before deciding to drive,” said Insp. Don Moser, assistant support services officer with the Nova Scotia RCMP. “Give yourself adequate time, slow down and always drive sober and distraction free.

If you feel you need to interject before someone else drives when conditions are unsafe, please do your part to keep them and others road users safe. Please enjoy this holiday sea

son safely and responsibly.”