Before we know it, snow, ice, and slush will cover the roads for another typical Canadian winter causing difficult– and sometimes dangerous – driving conditions. Is your vehicle ready for another Canadian winter?

By winterizing your vehicle, your daily travel will be a little less stressful and safer too.

Here are five easy ways to ensure your car is ready to tackle the snowy season:

1. Check that your car battery is strong enough to hold a charge when the temperature dips
2. Keep extra wiper fluid in the trunk so that your windows are clear of slushy debris
3. Have a winter safety kit in your car, including a warm blanket, gloves, a flashlight, an ice-scraper and first aid essentials
4. Check your tire pressure regularly – it’s affected by changes in temperature
5. And most importantly…switch to winter tires!

As soon as the temperature drops to 7°C, many non-winter tires begin to lose traction and grip. Winter tires are designed with the appropriate tread patterns and rubber compounds to provide better traction and handling in sub-zero temperatures.

A recent survey for the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC) found that 68 per cent of Canadian drivers now use winter tires – a double-digit increase from 2014. Atlantic Canada leads the surge when it comes to winter tire usage (81 per cent), while 65 per cent of Ontario drivers choose to make the switch as cold weather approaches, leaving British Columbia, Alberta and Manitoba not far behind.

Have you winterized your vehicle? Share your tips to keep your vehicle ready for the cold weather ahead.