With Thursday's snowfall, it's ever apparent that the winter season is on its way.
 
During this time road conditions, as well as the cold, can be detrimental to the lifespan of a vehicle.
 
To avoid ending up trapped on the side of the road or in a ditch, Carman Ford Technician Brian Orchard lists the key items in winter vehicle maintenance.
 
"Number one thing would be the tires, winter tires are definitely the way to go. Then, of course, there’s the oil change, check your block heater, your anti-freeze, your hoses, and your belts so you don’t get stopped on the road."
 
Orchard says it’s important to remember to let your vehicle warm up before using it on colder days. He says giving it five minutes during minus 20 weather can make a world of a difference.
 
Even a well-maintained vehicle prepared for the elements can end up in accidents. Vigilance on speed and distance between vehicles can be critical.
 
In ideal conditions, a vehicle traveling at 60 km/h takes 10.33 m longer to stop than a vehicle traveling at 50 km/h.
 
Adding reduced visibility and poor road conditions, a small miscalculation can lead to an incident.
 
Richard Paetzold, Winkler’s Fire Chief, says it’s important before you even head out on the road to let people know where you are going and to have a winter safety kit in your vehicle.
 
"There are ready-made kits out there you can buy. The big thing is to keep warm, have a charged cell phone, and have some water to drink. Of course being careful if you do hit the ditch, that you make sure the tailpipe is clear of snow."
 
Kits are comprised of a first aid kit, blankets or items to stay warm, a shovel, and a flash light.