A slippery week on Manitoba roads, along with the imminent arrival of winter, prompted CAA Manitoba to remind people how to stay safe while driving.

Nadia Matos, external communications manager at CAA Manitoba, said now is the time for drivers to start making appointments to have their winter tires installed.

“When temperatures reach seven degrees Celsius, that’s the time you want to start putting on your winter tires,” she said.

Matos said winter tires are designed to give you more traction and control on snowy and icy roads, compared to all-season tires. However, you don’t just have to think about the vehicle; your driving habits also need to change.

Matos said drivers need to slow down, reduce distractions and focus on the road, even when there is no snow on the ground.

“It’s really about changing and modifying your behavior during the winter months,” she said. “It’s no longer sunny skies and a smooth highway; you really have to consider that the weather has changed and there are things in your driving behavior that need to change during the winter.

Matos adds that it’s also important for drivers to have a car emergency kit including blankets, tea lights and extra winter clothing.