Food for thought

As we head out on the roads this holiday season, it’s important to remember that we are all taking a risk. Whether we’re driving to visit family and friends or simply running errands, we need to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to protect ourselves and others.

Road collisions continue to be a problem in Mississauga. Many residents have lost their lives in road collisions that were preventable or could have been avoided. This time of year, there is a higher risk of collisions on Mississauga roads. Reduced daylight hours can impact visibility, winter weather can cause challenging road conditions and there are more road users travelling around Mississauga celebrating the holidays. Whether you’re walking, cycling, taking transit or driving, the City of Mississauga reminds you to stay alert and safe when travelling around the city.

“There’s always a lot to celebrate this time of year, but it’s important to do so responsibly. We want to make sure everyone gets to their destination and home again safely,” said Geoff Wright, Commissioner, Transportation and Works. “If you’re driving, avoid distractions, drive to weather conditions and don’t drive impaired – you can designate a driver, use MiWay to get around or use a rideshare program or taxi. If you’re walking, cycling, taking transit or using another mode of transportation, remember to stay alert and use crosswalks or crossrides when possible.”

According to Peel Regional Police, impaired driving (driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol) and distracted driving continue to be a concern in Mississauga.

“We are proud to partner with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada as part of our strategy to address impaired driving. Our seasonal Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E) program has already checked over 7,000 vehicles and will continue to early January. Please plan ahead as you enjoy the upcoming holiday season. If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 911. Together, we can Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere!” said Deputy Chief Marc Andrews, Peel Regional Police.

The City is prepared to respond to any snowfall or icy conditions to ensure routes are safe and accessible. Residents are reminded to stay patient during a snow event. Those driving are reminded to clear snow off their vehicles, give crews and equipment space to work and remove parked cars from their street so crews can work to clear roads.

For more road safety information and additional safety tips, visit mississauga.ca/roadsafety.

For more information about the City’s winter maintenance program, visit mississauga.ca/snow

To learn more about impaired driving and distracted driving, visit peelpolice.ca/en/safety-tips/road-safety.aspx

Winter road safety tips

If driving:

• Clean off your car by clearing snow and ice from all windows, the roof of your car and headlights to ensure you have an unobstructed view and others can see you.
• Plan a safe way home, and don’t drive impaired (alcohol or cannabis). Rely on a safe transportation option instead by using MiWay, using a rideshare program or a taxi, or designating a driver.
• Avoid distractions and focus on the road when driving. Send text messages or make phone calls before you get in your car or when you reach your destination.
• Drive for the road conditions by slowing down in bad weather like snow, ice or freezing rain.
• Give snow-clearing crews and equipment room to work. Be patient if you are behind them.
• Give yourself more time to get to your destination safely.
• Look for pedestrians and cyclists before turning, entering/exiting driveways or roadways and parking lots as they are busy this time of year.

If walking, cycling or using another mode of active transportation:

• Give yourself extra time by leaving earlier.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Travel according to conditions by slowing down in icy and snowy conditions.
• If walking, consider using sturdy winter boots with good treads that can provide extra traction.
• If cycling, try changing the tires on your bike – thick ones have better grip on snow. Give yourself extra space whenever you brake.
• Help increase your visibility by using a crosswalk or crossride when possible. If cycling, use reflectors and bike lights.