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MEDIA RELEASE: Manitoba’s Worst Road for 2022 is…
Winnipeg, MB, May 24, 2022 – A provincial road that connects Seven Sisters Falls through Manitoba’s Whiteshell Provincial Park is the province’s Worst Road. Provincial Road 307 is the dubious “winner” of CAA Manitoba’s Worst Roads contest for 2022, says Heather Mack, Manager, Government and Community Services. “This is the first time a rural road has made the top of our list,” says Mack. “But it’s not a surprise – more rural roads have been making our Top 10 list as the annual contest goes on.” A resident who lives near Otter Falls, which is in the Whiteshell off of PR 307, tells CAA Manitoba that the road is even worse in the winter – thanks to how much the road heaves in the cold. “It just comes up and if you aren’t careful, you go flying,” he says, noting the province has erected warning signs, but has not fixed the heaving. Last week, the road was closed due to overland flooding, which should be a wake-up call to governments, says Mack. “Climate change affects our infrastructure as much as anything else,” she says. “We need to be pro-active in preparing our roads so these vital community links, especially in rural Manitoba, are not cut off.” Winnipeg’s Saskatchewan Avenue came in second due to its numerous patches and potholes – including one pothole that was so deep, a local man took a photo of himself standing waist-deep inside it. It’s not just potholes that CAA Manitoba asked Manitobans to think about when voting for their worst road. Lack of active transportation paths, lack of safe and accessible access, poor or no signage, bad design or poor maintenance all went into this year’s voting. This year’s Top 10 list for Manitoba: 1. Provincial Road 307 2. Saskatchewan Avenue, Winnipeg 3. Waller Avenue, Winnipeg 4. Provincial Trunk Hwy 34, Pilot Mound/Crystal City 5. 18th Street, Brandon 6. Provincial Trunk Hwy 44, Lockport to Whiteshell 7. Leila Avenue, Winnipeg 8. Kenaston Boulevard, Winnipeg 9. Dawson Road North, Winnipeg 10. Goulet Street, Winnipeg Last year’s winner, Taylor Avenue, dropped off the provincial Top 10 list thanks to recent reconstruction efforts by the City of Winnipeg, but is still in the Top 10 list for Winnipeg. “This contest provides a snapshot of what Manitobans are experiencing out on our roads. We are pleased to see some of the usual roads on our list get moved down or fall off as local governments take action,” says Mack. “We are here to advocate for the safest roads possible for Manitobans – no matter whether they drive, bike, use transit or walk.” Photos and video of Manitoba’s Worst Road: https://bit.ly/3yP1wNl Other Regional “Winners” Winnipeg’s worst: 1. Saskatchewan Avenue 2. Waller Avenue 3. Leila Avenue 4. Kenaston Boulevard 5. Dawson Road North 6. Goulet Street 7. Taylor Avenue 8. Portage Avenue 9. Narin Avenue 10. Empress Street Southern Manitoba’s worst: 1. Provincial Road 307 2. Provincial Trunk Hwy 34 3. 18th Street, Brandon 4. Provincial Trunk Hwy 44 5. Provincial Road 250 6. Main Street, Selkirk 7. Trans-Canada Highway, Brandon 8. Provincial Trunk Hwy 23, Morris 9. Provincial Trunk Hwy 12 10. Provincial Road 450 Portage La Prairie’s Worst: 1. Lorne Avenue West. 2. Saskatchewan Avenue Brandon’s Worst: 1. 18th Street. 2. Trans-Canada Highway Thompson’s Worst: 1. Provincial Trunk Hwy 6. 2. Hayes Road Morden’s Worst: 1. Provincial Road 432. 2. 1st Street Selkirk’s Worst: 1. Main Street 2. Manitoba Avenue Steinbach’s Worst: 1. Loewen Boulevard 2. Park Road West
MEDIA RELEASE: CAA Manitoba, Bike Winnipeg to hold free Bike Clinic Tune Up Day Saturday
Winnipeg, MB, May 9, 2022 – Over the past two years, Manitobans have rediscovered their backyards, and bicycles have been a big part of that discovery. CAA Manitoba always puts safety first, and to that end, has partnered with Bike Winnipeg to offer a free, open-to-all Bike Clinic Tune-Up Day, this Saturday, May 28, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. “We hope to empower anyone who owns a bike to learn how to tune it up themselves this spring,” says Heather Mack, Manager of Government and Community Relations, CAA Manitoba. “Cycling safely on the streets, on our trails and active transportation paths starts with a properly running bicycle.” Mark Cohoe, executive director of Bike Winnipeg, says his group’s aim is to help Winnipeg’s bike culture and network to continue to grow and evolve. “There are a lot of barriers to cycling that keep people off their bicycles,” says Cohoe. “If we can help remove one of those barriers, we’re happy to do so.” This Saturday, anyone can bring their bike to 987 Milt Stegall Drive, where two CAA Manitoba Bike Assist vehicles and experts from Bike Winnipeg will be on hand to help teach people how to tune up their family bicycles. CAA Manitoba and Bike Winnipeg can provide basic tools, air compressors and more to get your bike into tip-top riding shape. Please note, however, we cannot provide parts or tire tubes. Date: Saturday, May 28, 2022 Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Location: 987 Milt Stegall Drive
Winnipeg, MB, March 21, 2022 – A winter with heavy snowfall means Manitobans are on the lookout for spring water damage. There are countless ways water can damage your property, which can lead to hazardous mold and structural damage. Luckily, there are just as many ways to prevent it. “The highest risk homeowners face is water damage, yet many homeowners remain unprepared,” said Tim Scott, president of CAA Manitoba. “While incidents can occur unexpectedly, common causes of water damage can often be spotted and prevented in advance.” "There are a few main causes of water damage that homeowners should watch for,” continued Scott. “Thawing, heavy rain and overland flooding are common in the spring, but homeowners should also be checking their roofs, downspouts and foundations every year to avoid unexpected seeping and leaks.” While this year’s slow melt has been helpful to lower the risk of overland flooding, unfortunately, it encourages ice dams on homes. An ice dam forms when melting snow turns to ice near the edge of your roof, trapping water behind and underneath it. That water can lead to all sorts of problems, said Don Fata, owner of Pristine Roofing in Winnipeg. “We are taking hundreds of calls this season,” said Fata. “It’s very important to remove ice dams if they form on your roof. Otherwise, they can lead to damage to your shingles, your roof and inside your home.” The trapped water behind an ice dam can seep through the roof and cause serious damage to insulation, drywall and electrical systems, said Fata. Left long term, it could also damage flooring, carpets and cause cracks in walls. “Removing ice dams is best done by the experts, who can do so safely and without damaging your roof or eavestroughs,” said Fata. Some other ways to help prevent flooding or water in your home include: Installing a sump pump and backwater valve Installing water sensors Flood shields around basement windows This spring, make sure to: ❑ Inspect your roof for signs of missing shingles, cracks or other damage ❑ Inspect eavestroughs to see they are not clogged or broken ❑ Make sure downspouts are directed away from your home ❑ Check windows and doors for signs of leakage ❑ Inspect your appliances regularly ❑ Watch your water bill for sudden jumps ❑ Check your basement walls for moisture ❑ Ensure your sump pump, backup valves and shut off valves are working properly ❑ Check your foundation for cracks – when the snow melts In addition to the tools and tips above, it is important to understand what is and is not covered in your home insurance policy, follow up with your insurance provider or broker to clarify any exclusions or additions. CAA licensed Insurance Brokers provide complimentary property insurance policy reviews -- even if you’re not insured with the company. For more information, visit CAA Manitoba’s home insurance website and to get a free property insurance quote.
MEDIA RELEASE: CAA Manitoba sees a high number of service calls due to extended, extreme cold
WINNPEG, January 7, 2022 – The extreme cold weather that has gripped southern Manitoba for weeks has caused higher-than-average call volumes, and as result CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is prioritizing service to Members in unsafe situations. “CAA’s top priority is to always ensure our members and drivers are safe, especially in extreme cold weather situations and when stranded on the side of the road,” says Tim Scott, President, CAA Manitoba. “We assure members that we are doing everything we can to get them and provide assistance. If you’re safe at home, we ask for your patience as there may be extended wait times.” On a typical winter day, CAA sees an average of 300 to 400 calls, the cold snap has resulted in a call volume three times higher than normal. “The last few weeks have been incredibly cold and busy days. Demand for service coupled with the frigid weather has been difficult,” says Scott. As the extreme cold weather is expected to stick around well into next week, CAA is reminding members, to plug in block heaters, and if they do decide to go out, to make sure you have an emergency car kit in your trunk. As well as having a fully charged cell phone before leaving your home. If drivers do find themselves stranded during the cold weather, it is important to be prepared by following these tips: Note the location of your vehicle. Assess your vehicle's operating problem if it is safe to do so. Make your vehicle visible by turning on hazard lights. If you choose to exit your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings and stay away from oncoming traffic. If a member finds themselves in need of service, we encourage downloading the CAA mobile app by visiting www.caamanitoba.com/membership/mobile-app or dialing *222 on your smartphone. During this weather event, Members at home may be given the option to call an alternate service provider and submit the receipt for reimbursement at our contractor rates.
MEDIA RELEASE: Winter weather looming: CAA Manitoba advising motorists to prepare for the unexpected
Winnipeg, MB, November 04, 2021 – As temperatures drop and winter approaches, it’s a reminder that unpredictable driving conditions often come when we least expect it. CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is advising motorists to get their vehicles ready now before wintry weather hits. “It’s time to prepare your vehicle by installing winter tires and getting your battery checked by a professional,” says Heather Mack, manager of government and community relations at CAA MB. “We are encouraging motorists to be winter wise and plan ahead for heavy snowfalls, slippery road conditions and frigid temperatures before they happen.” Winter tires take on all the challenges brought on by cold weather including snow, ice, slush, wet and dry roads, but to fully optimize your vehicle’s handling, stability and braking it’s important to install four matching tires once the temperature consistently dips below 7°C. “Compared to all-season tires, winter tires stay flexible in cold temperatures—whether or not there’s snow on the ground—giving you better traction,” says Mack. “This may reduce your stopping distance by a few feet which can be the reason for preventing a collision.” Save time by getting your tires changed right in your driveway by booking CAA’s Mobile Tire Change service and enjoy convenient, safe and reliable at-home assistance performed by expert technicians. While installing your winter tires, CAA recommends also asking your mechanic to check your car battery. “Even a fully charged battery can lose power when the temperature dips below 0° Celsius,” says Mack. “It’s important to have your car battery tested in the fall to ensure it’s ready for the winter.” If your battery is giving you problems or you are unsure if it’s time to replace it, you can call CAA’s Mobile Battery Service at *222 to have a trained CAA MB Battery Service Representative come test your battery and provide a helping hand. Not sure if your car battery will make it through the winter months? Watch for the following warning signs that a battery may need to be replaced: Your vehicle cranks slowly when trying to start. It takes 175 to 250 amps of battery power to get a car going. If your car is slow to start, you might be dealing with an insufficient charge. Your headlights dim while idling. When idle, a car may draw more power than the alternator alone can produce, so your battery kicks in. If your headlights dim when you are idling but brighten when you rev the engine, it could mean a drained battery. Your digital systems power down quickly. Electronics like the radio, GPS, dash cams and other accessories, especially in modern cars, use battery power when the engine is off. If they stop functioning properly, it could suggest a weak battery. You hear a grinding, clicking or buzzing noise when you turn on the ignition. It’s important to be able to distinguish the reason why your vehicle may be making noises, usually, these sounds mean your battery has lost its charge but if you’re still unsure, get your vehicle checked by a professional. Your vehicle has stalled. The stored energy in your car battery is essential for starting the engine, without its juice, you won’t be going very far.
MEDIA RELEASE: Ten things Manitobans need to know prior to booking travel abroad
Winnipeg, MB, October, 26, 2021 – CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) has compiled a list of ten things that Manitobans should be aware of if they are considering travelling abroad. “Now that the Canadian government is no longer advising against non-essential travel due to COVID-19, those who are considering booking a trip should make sure they understand the scope of what travel looks like at the moment,” said Kaitlynn Furse, director, corporate communications, CAA Club Group. “The checklist for planning a trip has changed and we want to help people navigate this new environment.” Through consultation with its top travel agents, CAA MB has identified ten key considerations that potential travellers may not be aware of. Anyone who is considering travel in the current environment should make sure they have looked into the following and remember that travel requirements and regulations are continually changing. 1. Confirm the COVID-19 situation at destination prior to booking. Understand the risk level associated with travel to a particular destination by checking the Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories website. While the Global Affairs Canada Level 3 Travel Advisory to avoid all non-essential travel has been lifted, individual travel advisories do remain on a country-by-country basis. It is important that Canadians understand the ongoing uncertainty associated with international travel, whether that be related to the continued community transmission of COVID-19, or state of health care systems in destinations hit hard by the pandemic. 2. Understand the type, timing, cost and accessibility of required COVID testing. Every country has different requirements when it comes to the COVID tests that are needed prior to travel, and every country has different testing capacities once you are there. There are also requirements in order to return to Canada. Make sure you understand the difference between molecular PCR and rapid antigen tests, in what time period tests must be taken, the associated costs and locations where these tests are available. 3. Confirm change and cancellation flexibility with your travel service provider. Many airlines and hotels have been providing more flexibility when it comes to refunds and changes to bookings. Make sure you understand any key dates related to cancellation and changes and whether you are entitled to a refund or a future travel voucher or credit at the time of booking. 4. Buy travel insurance and understand what is covered. Make sure you have $5 million in coverage for emergency medical situations and that illness related to COVID-19 is included. Understand your entitlements for things like denied boarding in the event of a positive test and coverage related to isolation expenses. 5. Prepare required travel documentation and the format it must be presented in, for both Canada and your destination. Canadians returning home should have all required documentation loaded onto the ArriveCAN App or website. Each destination has varying requirements, so make sure you fully understand what information you need to have ready and in what format. Make sure you also take into consideration connections and any requirements in the connecting destination due to lay over or delays. 6. Take note of local public health rules prior to departure. Many destinations have measures in place such as curfews and quarantine requirements. You should also understand what the regulations are if you happen to test positive for COVID-19 in the country you are visiting. 7. Be aware of changes between booking and departure. Make sure you reconfirm all the details that were researched prior to booking, to ensure they are still accurate prior to departure. What was true when a trip was booked may not be the case by the time you are ready to travel. 8. Double check all research with the appropriate embassy or consulate. Travel at this time is complex and many factors can change quickly, so ensuring you have the most up to date and accurate information is essential. 9. Plan for extra time. From disembarkment and customs to retrieving luggage and exiting the airport, most things on the travel journey are taking longer than during preCOVID travel times. Also note the check-in and baggage drop off deadline for your flight as it may require you to arrive earlier than anticipated. 10. Stay connected. Fully unplugging while travelling is likely a thing of the past. It is important to have access to trusted, up-to-date information while travelling so you can monitor changing conditions and requirements and adapt accordingly. Bookmark the Global Affairs Canada website prior to departure and check it regularly while abroad. It is also a good idea to sign up for Registration of Canadians Abroad and stay in touch with a family or friend that has knowledge of your travel plans.
MEDIA RELEASE: Stay Alert Stay Safe: Daylight saving time ends soon
Winnipeg, MB, October 29, 2020 – CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is reminding all motorists and pedestrians to stay alert as we turn our clocks back this weekend. Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 1. The return to standard time means fewer daylight hours and reduced visibility for all road users. “Road safety and pedestrian safety are a shared responsibility. Taking precautions and being aware of other road users helps us all arrive at our destinations safely,” says Heather Mack, manager of government and community relations, CAA MB. As we are navigate our new normal, working and commuting during a pandemic, we are facing additional obstructions this year. Physical distancing means pedestrians may step out onto the road to keep their distance from others or take longer to cross at intersections. It is important now more than ever to remind road users to follow the rules of the road, and be patient. What motorists can do to stay safe: Be alert to pedestrians stepping out onto the road. Physical distancing on sidewalks means pedestrians may step out onto the road at any given moment. Always look for pedestrians crossing the road. Be attentive while driving and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, school crossings and crossovers. Mind your blind spots. Be aware of blind spots when making turns at intersections. Stay focused and vigilant behind the wheel. Avoid distractions inside and outside of your vehicle. Slow down in school zones. Reduce your speed and obey speed limits in school zones and residential neighbourhoods. Prepare for the unexpected. Residential streets and school zones have different types of obstacles, such as children playing outdoors, riding bikes, skateboarding, etc. Be cautious and considerate. Be alert around stopped transit vehicles and be courteous to pedestrians with different mobility needs that may require more time. Use your lights. Motorists should use their full lighting system at when it gets dark and in low visibility situations. What pedestrians can do to stay safe: Be careful when physical distancing on the sidewalk. Try to avoid stepping out onto road and if you end up stepping on the road, ensure there are no vehicles in the lane. Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions and be alert while crossing the street. Follow the flow. Follow signals and cross at designated locations or crosswalks. Stop, look, and listen. Ensure all traffic has come to a complete stop before crossing the road. Keep an eye out. Make eye contact with motorists—never assume that drivers can see you or know your intentions. Be visible. Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing or accessories at night to help with visibility. CAA MB are providing FREE “Slow Down Please” lawn signs to anyone living in Winnipeg. When well-placed, these signs aim to make roads safer for children and those living in the community. Remember to check local bylaws before installing signs on private property. Anyone can pick up a maximum of two signs at any CAA Store, while quantities last.
Winnipeg, MB, September 3, 2020 – COVID-19 has changed the way we do many things and, the return to school is no different. Many Manitoba students are heading back to school next week and CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is reminding everyone to slow down and take extra caution while travelling through school zones. Pedestrian safety begins with drivers, and this year more than ever, it’s important to put away distractions such as phones and be extra attentive in school zones, be it a parent driving or a child walking or biking to school. “As students prepare to reunite with friends and classmates after a six-month hiatus, many might forget to take the extra precautions needed to stay safe. This means there is an even bigger responsibility to watch for children travelling to and from school,” says Heather Mack, manager of government and community relations for CAA MB. Drivers can also use the following CAA tips to ensure they are staying safe in school zones: Make eye contact with children: With the excitement of back to school, anticipate that children may not easily see or hear your moving vehicle. Make eye contact with passing pedestrians and cyclists. Reduce traffic by walking: Incorporate a short walk into your commute to school. CAA encourages parents to park a block away and walk to school, if possible, to reduce congestion and make school zones safer. Slow down: Know the speed limit in your neighbourhood’s school zones and respect them. Watch for more school buses: Always stop for the buses’ flashing lights and wait for children to get safely on or off. Stay alert and watch for children or parents crossing the road when the bus moves on. Choose a safe spot to drop off and pick up your children from school: Follow your school’s rules and don’t park illegally, it can put your child’s safety at risk. Instead, use the designated drop off areas or consider a spot a bit farther away from school that is easily accessible and safe. The above tips are crucial in maintaining a safe school zone. According to CAA poll, nearly 25 per cent of drivers reported witnessing a near miss or collision in a school zone, more than half of which involved a child. The poll also revealed 70 per cent of Canadians said they have witnessed someone speeding in a school zone. CAA supports safety in school zones through the CAA School Safety Patrol® program. The program was developed to protect, educate and empower elementary school children on safe road-crossing practices.
MEDIA RELEASE: CAA urges drivers to protect lives on first national Slow Down Move Over Day
WINNIPEG, May 14, 2019 – CAA is urging motorists to make space for tow trucks providing service on the side of the road on Canada’s first national Slow Down Move Over day. The day promotes a safe working environment for tow truck operators across the country. CAA has long advocated for the protection of roadside assistance workers through Slow Down, Move Over legislation. CAA Clubs across Canada have designated May 14 as Slow Down Move Over day to bring attention to this important issue. “Lack of driver awareness is one of the largest threats to tow-truck operator safety on this day and all others,” said Raymond Chan, government relations, CAA. “Everyone should slow down and move over when they see a tow truck operator on the side of the road.” CAA’s eight Clubs across Canada will be launching public education campaigns and events today to draw attention to the safety risks tow truck operators face. There are approximately 24 million motorists and 15,000 tow truck operators on the road annually in Canada. This leads to thousands of near misses experienced by emergency roadside operators annually and, across North America, nearly 100 tow truck drivers are killed every year after being struck by oncoming traffic while helping stranded motorists with flat tires, breakdowns and collisions. Every tow truck driver knows the number of close calls they've experienced while pulled over on busy roadways. "I figured that was going to be the end, that I was going to be done," said one CAA tow-truck operator after a near-miss during a roadside assistance call. In 2011, the Slow Down Move Over law became part of Manitoba’s Highway Traffic Act. Most provinces and territories have Slow Down Move Over legislation that mandates motorists must slow down and change lanes, if it is safe to do so, to ensure the safety of emergency workers on the roadside, but it is often not observed. Learn more about the Slow Down Move Over Day here: caamanitoba.com/slowdown
MEDIA RELEASE: Empress Street tops list for second year running
WINNIPEG, May 8, 2019 – The votes are in, and Manitoba’s Worst Road for 2019 is Empress Street in Winnipeg for the second consecutive year. “Manitoba’s Worst Roads campaign is about uniting the public in sharing their views,” says Tim Scott, president of CAA Manitoba. “Even with construction taking place on Empress Street at this moment, voters identified it as the Worst Road once again. Empress is a major arterial road that many Winnipeggers rely on to get where they are going. Properly maintained roads lead to safer travels and a healthy economy, but the public understands that further delay leads to a direct financial impact on them. We’re proud to give a voice to Manitobans who want to pave the way for better roads in the province.” Over 2,700 votes were cast for more than 400 roads. Road users of all types voted for the streets they wanted to focus on. Potholes and crumbling pavement continue to be the most critical issue identified by motorists, followed by traffic congestion. Cyclists pointed to potholes and poor cycling infrastructure as their top gripes, while pedestrians cited inadequate walking infrastructure as their biggest problem. Seven of the top ten Worst Roads are in Winnipeg, while three are rural roads. In second place is Provincial Trunk Highway 34 found in western Manitoba near Austin. Eighth place is Provincial Trunk Highway 23, which passes through numerous communities in southern Manitoba, and tenth is Provincial Trunk Highway 32 by Winkler. Some of the Winnipeg roads that have appeared on the Worst Roads list in previous years include Saskatchewan Avenue, Sherwin Road and St. James Street. Earlier this year, both the federal and provincial governments announced that a combined total of approximately $300 million will be spent to improve 350 kilometers of the highway network across Manitoba, and the City of Winnipeg recently announced that one-time federal gas tax funding will be spent on road repairs, road safety initiatives and the promotion of active transportation. “We know that CAA’s ongoing advocacy efforts are working and that governments are listening,” says Scott. “CAA will continue to bring the voice of Worst Roads voters to government and work with stakeholders on how to create infrastructure and transportation that we can all be proud of.”