Winter tires not all a car needs for holiday season, CAA says

WINNIPEG — With the holiday season in full swing, more people are going to be on the roads.

The Canadian Automobile Association is reminding drivers to make sure they are prepared for winter.

“People are going to holiday parties and they are in dresses, suits and nice shoes,” said Angele Young, of CAA Manitoba. “What happens if you get stuck?”

A recent survey by the automotive association found just over 50 per cent of Manitobans are not ready for a roadside emergency.

You should have extra mitts and toques as well as a blanket, shovel and an emergency kit.

The kit should have a flare, candle, food and small tools.

Cold survival expert, Gordon Giesbrecht, also known as Professor Popsicle, says you should never leave your vehicle if you become stranded because you will be tough to find.

“Anything below -10 if you were stuck over night you would be really uncomfortable,” said Giesbrecht, adding the danger zone for frostbite is around -20 and colder.

He says you should make sure you have extra clothes, mitts and boots in your vehicle. If you have it in your trunk, consider moving in to the back seat. If you hit the ditch it may be tough to reach.

While many emergency kits come with blankets, Giesbrecht suggests upgrading to a sleeping bag.

“It is much better because you can get in it and zip it up as opposed to wrapping yourself up in a blanket in a car which is very difficult,” he said. “You will get insulation (with a blanket) but there will be openings where you will lose heat.”