Shift into autumn and back-to-school driving with this essential seasonal checklist
Shifting into autumn, it’s time to prepare for slicker roads and darker drives – coinciding, of course with back-to-school, when students of all ages are sharing local roads by car, foot and bike.
“After our sunny, dry summer, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is prepared for fall driving, and that we adjust our driving for the changing road conditions,” says BCAA Auto Service Centre Regional Manager, Kregg Brandner.
“Wet roads, cooler temperatures, decreased daylight and unpredictable weather can affect our ability to see potential hazards and stop quickly when we need to, but regular vehicle maintenance and safe driving habits can help prevent collisions and breakdowns.”
Your fall maintenance checklist includes:
- Tires: Check your tread depth and pressure. Ensure you’re aware of specific winter tire requirements along some routes and switch from summer to winter tires for improved traction on wet, slippery roads.
- Fluids and brakes: BCAA Auto Service Centre technicians can check and replenish essential vehicle fluids and ensure your brakes are working properly.
- Lights and visibility: Cloudy headlights can cause visibility issues, ensure your headlights, taillights and turn signals are working correctly by cleaning and polishing them. And give your wiper blades a check and replace if needed as they can dry out in the hot summer months.
- Have an emergency kit: Traffic delays or breakdowns can happen anytime and anywhere. Assembling (and refreshing!) a car emergency kit with first aid supplies, booster cables, blankets, water and non-perishable snacks can be a life-saver if the need arises.
Safe driving practices are essential year-round, but we must be extra vigilant as children excitedly head back to school, especially with darker, wetter mornings and early evenings ahead. BCAA Photo
Share the road safely
Safe driving practices are essential year-round, but we must be extra vigilant as children excitedly head back to school, especially with darker, wetter mornings and early evenings ahead.
- Slippery roads, glare and congested school areas all call for keen observation, slowing down and following speed limits.
- Watch for school buses and follow safety rules – stay patient and alert in areas with increased pedestrian and student traffic.
- And as you strap kids in their child passenger seat, ensure it’s securely installed, age-appropriate and that children are belted in properly, so in case of a sudden stop or collision, this vital protective equipment can do its job.
Wash your way to funds for your group
If your school group, sports team or non-profit is fundraising for a special event or cause, the automated car wash at the Nanaimo BCAA Auto Service Centre can offer the perfect opportunity! Available Sundays through December (weather dependent), learn more and apply at bcaa.com/carwashfundraiser or email Kregg Brandner, Regional Manager of BCAA Auto Service Centres at nanaimoautoservice@bcaa.com for any questions.
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