Enjoy the nice weather, because it is about to get cold.
The temperatures are expected to dip later this week, especially at night.
Red Deerians will see a low of -22 C Wednesday night.
The low Thursday night will be -22 C, and -25 C on Friday night.
Saturday night, Red Deer residents will experience a low of -29 C, according to Environment Canada.
Given what’s in the forecast, the Alberta Motor Association is urging drivers to take steps to reduce the risk of emergency.
The agency said Monday, that just over a year ago, the province experienced its coldest temperatures since the Great Depression, resulting in a record number of calls.
The agency said four in 10 AMA rescues are battery related due to extreme weather conditions.
The AMA rescues a motorist every 40 seconds in extreme winter, it said Monday.
Here’s what AMA recommends:
* Prior to driving, plug in your vehicle for at least four hours when the outdoor temperature is -15 C or below.
* Always carry an emergency kit to help ensure your safety in the event of an unexpected breakdown. This should include things like a blanket, warm clothing, caution triangles, a flashlight, gloves and a folding shovel.
* Clear off your vehicle thoroughly before leaving to ensure your lines of sight aren’t obstructed by snow or ice.
* If you have any doubts about your battery’s health, consider alternate transportation until a test is completed or a new battery is installed. This could save you from being stranded outdoors in extreme temperatures.
* If your vehicle doesn’t have a block heater, switching to synthetic oil will help the engine turn over.
* Ensure your gas tank is at least half full and consider using gas-line antifreeze.
* Swapping to winter tires will give you much better traction on snow and ice, reduce your stopping distance, and provide much better control.
mamta.lulla@reddeeradvocate.com
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