Make sure you’re ready for winter weather

Whether we like it or not, winter is here—or it will be shortly. Winter weather can make life difficult for Canadians, but it can also make it treacherous.
 
Freezing rain, whiteouts, and sleet can make getting safely from point A to point B a challenge—especially if your route takes you across railway tracks.
 
Blowing snow and poor visibility can make it hard for drivers to see railway crossings or oncoming trains, especially at night. Rural rail crossings can be particularly hazardous. Most of these crossings are equipped with crossbucks, but they don’t have gates, lights, or bells to warn of approaching trains—so drivers need to be extra vigilant.
 
Know how to stay safe this winter
 
Avoiding a serious train-vehicle collision in winter starts with proper planning. Following these simple tips can help keep you safe when you approach rail crossings this winter:
 

• Reduce your speed. When road conditions are poor, it takes longer to stop. Always slow down well in advance of railway crossings. 

 

• Avoid distractions. When approaching railway crossings, turn off the radio and heating fans so you can listen for oncoming trains. Roll down your window—especially if it’s frosty or foggy—and look both ways before crossing the tracks.

 

• Look for railway warning signs and signals—and prepare to stop. Snow may cover train tracks at a crossing, making them look like the road. So keep an eye out for railway advance-warning signs and crossbucks.

 

• Use winter tires. They have treads designed to grip ice and snow, so you'll be less likely to slide on the road or into the side of a train.

 
For more winter driving tips, please visit the Canadian Automobile Association’s website. Remember, rail safety is everyone’s responsibility. So be rail-smart this winter: Look. Listen. Live.