The Canadian Diamond Drilling Association reminds all members to prioritize safe winter driving practices this season. Cold, snow, ice, and freezing rain make Canadian roads hazardous every year. Winter driving conditions demand greater awareness, preparation, and caution, especially for workers travelling to remote job sites or between site locations.
Key Steps to Stay Safe
1. Equip your vehicle properly
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Use winter tires on all four wheels for improved traction on snow or ice.
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Check tire pressure regularly: cold weather reduces pressure, which can affect handling and braking.
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Maintain a winter emergency kit in every vehicle, including items such as a snow shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, extra warm clothing, traction aids, and basic supplies in case of a breakdown or being stuck.
2. Adjust driving behaviour to winter conditions
At our Eastern Safety Meeting, October 30, 2025, Acting Sergeant Kyler Brouwer, Regional Media Coordinator for the Ontario Provincial Police’s North East discussed road safety in winter conditions and noted that driving according to conditions is of utmost importance.
During winter conditions drivers should:
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Slow down and allow extra stopping distance
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Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration, or braking; drive smoothly and steadily.
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Check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure; avoid travel if conditions are hazardous.
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Build extra travel time into schedules so there’s no pressure to rush
3. Clear snow and ice before driving
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Remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, lights and the vehicle’s roof. Snow left on the roof can slide forward during braking or blow onto other vehicles.
We thank CDDA member companies for their continued commitment to safety and for integrating winter road safety into their health and safety practices. If you have a safety champion on your team, the CDDA would be honoured to recognize them. We invite you to submit a nomination for the 2026 CDDA Safety Appreciation Awards by visiting: https://www.cdda.ca/call-for-nominations-2026-cdda-safety-appreciation-awards/.
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