From Our Partners
Laurie Bauer | Business Development Manager, TW Insurance
Road-Trip Safety Tips
for Canadian Snowbirds
Retirees looking to take an extended break from long, cold Canadian winters often
fl ock to warm weather destinations in parts of the United States. Some of the popular
Canadian ‘snowbird’ destinations include Florida, California, Arizona, and Texas.
When possible, many Canadian
snowbirds opt to drive their
own vehicles to their southern
destinations. Driving your own
car can be a fun, aff ordable, and
convenient travel option that lets
you make some unforgettable
memories along the way.
If you plan on driving south this
winter, these tips can help ensure
that you and your loved ones arrive
at your destination comfortably
and safely.
1. Go for a Tune-Up
Before getting ready to hit the road,
make sure that your car is ready
for some long-distance driving,
too. Book an appointment with a
qualifi ed mechanic a few weeks
before your trip to check your tires,
battery, belts, brakes, fl uids, and air
conditioner.
If you plan on driving in a hot
climate, or if you will be towing a
boat or trailer, ask your mechanic
if you need a motor oil with a
higher viscosity.
2. Gear Up
Nobody wants to think about a
roadside emergency derailing their
road trip, but it’s important to be
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prepared. An emergency situation
can happen when you least expect it
— even to the most diligent drivers.
Public Safety Canada recommends
that you pack an emergency kit with
the following essentials in your car:
• Non-perishable food items,
such as energy bars
• Water – in bottles that won’t
break if the water freezes
• Blanket
• Extra clothing and shoes or
boots
• First aid kit with a seatbelt
cutter
• Candle in a deep can and
matches
• Wind-up fl ashlight
• Whistle – in case you need to
attract attention
• Road maps
• Copy of your emergency plan
• List of contact numbers
• Radio (battery-powered or
crank)
• Small shovel, scraper, and
snowbrush
It is also recommended that
you keep the following items in
your trunk:
• Sand or salt
(cat litter will also work)
•
•
•
•
•
Antifreeze and windshield
washer fl uid
Tow rope
Jumper cables
Fire extinguisher
Warning light or road fl ares
3. Safety-Proof Your Car
In addition to packing an emergency
safety kit, you can take a number of
precautionary measures to safety-
proof your car:
• Loose items, such as hard
books or thermos mugs, can
act as projectiles in the case of
a collision. If possible, heavier
items should be stowed low
in the seat wells; bulky items
such as mobility
aids, golf
clubs, or
suitcases
should be
tied down
and
secured
in the
trunk.