Calgary Firefighters Urge Winter Readiness as Slippery Season Nears

Prepare for Winter Roads, Firefighters Advise

As winter's chill begins to settle, Calgary Firefighters are issuing a crucial public safety reminder: preparation, not luck, is key to navigating the city's challenging winter roads. Their recent message underscores essential precautions, including equipping vehicles with winter tires, ensuring lights are clean, slowing down, thoroughly clearing snow, and packing an emergency kit.

Safety Tips and Local Context

These recommendations are vital for reducing risks on slippery surfaces. While Alberta does not legally mandate winter tires, experts strongly advise their use for superior grip and reduced braking distances below 7°C. Cleared windows and a cautious speed significantly improve visibility and control, especially when collision rates spike during adverse weather events. The City of Calgary prioritizes clearing major routes, but individual driver preparedness, coupled with property owners clearing sidewalks within 24 hours, forms a comprehensive approach to ensuring community safety as the snow falls.