Winter Driving Manitoba Flashcards

Why are bridges and overpasses more dangerous than regular road surfaces in Manitoba winter conditions?

Answer: They freeze before regular road surfaces because cold air circulates above and below them

Bridges and overpasses freeze before other road surfaces because cold air circulates both above and below the structure. Regular roads are insulated by the ground beneath them, but bridges lose heat from all sides.

What should you do if you get stuck in deep snow on a Manitoba road?

Answer: Gently rock the vehicle between forward and reverse, use sand or kitty litter for traction, and dig around the tires

When stuck in snow, gently rock the vehicle between forward and reverse with light throttle. Place sand, kitty litter, or floor mats under the drive wheels for traction. Spinning tires at high speed only digs you in deeper.

In a Manitoba blizzard with whiteout conditions, what should you do?

Answer: Pull completely off the road when safe, activate hazard lights, and wait for conditions to improve

In whiteout conditions, visibility can drop to zero. The safest action is to pull completely off the road to a safe location, activate hazard lights, and wait. Following taillights closely is dangerous as the lead vehicle may be lost too.

What type of headlights should you use when driving in falling snow or fog in Manitoba?

Answer: Low beams — high beams reflect off snow and fog, reducing visibility

Low beams should be used in snow and fog. High beams reflect off snowflakes and fog droplets, creating a blinding wall of light that actually reduces your visibility. Low beams direct light downward onto the road.

What is the danger of leaving your vehicle running in an enclosed space (e.g., garage) to warm up during Manitoba winters?

Answer: Carbon monoxide from the exhaust can build up to deadly levels in enclosed spaces

Running a vehicle in an enclosed space like a garage produces carbon monoxide (CO), a colourless, odourless gas that can reach lethal concentrations quickly. Always warm up your vehicle outside or with the garage door fully open.

How does cold weather affect your vehicle's tire pressure in Manitoba?

Answer: Tire pressure drops in cold weather — approximately 1 PSI for every 5°C temperature drop

Cold temperatures cause air to contract inside tires, reducing pressure. In Manitoba's extreme cold, tires can lose significant pressure, affecting handling, braking, and fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly in winter.