Let’s face it: there is no winter quite like a Canadian winter. And if you’re driving in Calgary, you know that -30°C isn’t just a number on the forecast—it’s a challenge to your vehicle’s survival.
Even the most reliable vehicles can surrender to the deep freeze. Batteries die, tires lose pressure, and icy roads can lead to unexpected slides. At Urban Tow Truck, we’ve seen it all. While we are always ready to come rescue you with Calgary roadside assistance , we also want you to stay safe until we arrive.
Here is your essential breakdown guide for surviving a roadside emergency during an Alberta winter.
1. The “Red Zone” – What to Do Immediately
If your engine sputters or you slide into a snowbank, your first few decisions are critical for your safety.
- Get Off the Road: If your car is still moving, try to reach the shoulder or a parking lot. If you are on a busy highway like Deerfoot Trail and can’t move, stay put.
- Light It Up: Turn on your hazard lights immediately. In a whiteout or heavy snow, visibility is low, and other drivers need to see you.
- Stay Inside: This is the golden rule of winter breakdowns. Unless there is smoke or fire, do not leave your vehicle. Your car offers protection from the wind and other moving vehicles.
- Call for Help: Call Urban Tow Truck at (403) 470-1285. Give us your exact location (look for landmarks, exit numbers, or cross streets).
2. Managing the Cold While You Wait
Once help is on the way, your priority is body heat. A metal car loses heat rapidly once the engine dies.
- Run the Engine Sparingly: If your engine still starts and it is safe to do so, run it for about 10 minutes every hour to warm up the cabin.
- Check the Exhaust: Before you run the engine, ensure your tailpipe is not blocked by snow. A blocked exhaust can force deadly carbon monoxide back into the cabin.
- Crack a Window: Keep a window slightly open on the side away from the wind to ensure fresh air circulation.
- Move Your Body: Clap your hands and move your legs to keep circulation flowing. Do not fall asleep if the engine is running.
3. The Ultimate Winter Emergency Kit Checklist
We recommend every Calgary driver keep a dedicated bin in their trunk from November to April. Here is what should be inside:
- Warmth: A heavy wool blanket, extra toque, gloves, and a spare winter jacket.
- Visibility: A flashlight (with extra batteries) and road flares or a reflective triangle.
- Traction: A small bag of sand or non-clumping kitty litter (for traction on ice) and a foldable shovel.
- Power: A portable phone power bank (cold weather drains phone batteries instantly).
- Sustenance: Non-perishable energy bars and water (keep water in plastic bottles so they don’t shatter if they freeze).
- Tools: Jumper cables and a basic first-aid kit.
4. Common Winter Culprits (And How to Prevent Them)
Why did you break down? Usually, it comes down to three things:
- The Battery: Cold weather slows down the chemical reaction inside your battery. Prevention: If your battery is more than 3 years old, get it tested. Plug in your block heater when it drops below -15°C.
- The Tires: Tire pressure drops as the temperature plunges. Prevention: Check your tire pressure monthly and switch to winter tires—they stay flexible and grip the road when all-seasons turn into hard plastic.
- The Fluids: Gas line freeze and thick oil are real issues. Prevention: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent condensation from freezing in your fuel lines.
Stay Safe, Calgary!
Winter driving can be stressful, but preparation is your best defense. Whether you need a boost, a winch-out from a snowbank, or a tow to the shop, we are here to help you weather the storm.
Save our number in your phone today: 📞 (403) 470-1285 Urban Tow Truck – Fast, Reliable, & Ready for Winter.
