A deep freeze sends temperatures plunging

THORNHILL, ON, Jan. 5, 2015 /CNW/ - Southern Ontario is in the grips of a deep freeze as a frigid arctic blast sweeps across the province this week.

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is reminding members to be prepared for higher than normal call volumes and longer than normal wait times. Our top priority is always safety. We service high-priority calls first – those drivers stranded in the snow and cold – prior to those in the comfort and safety of their homes.

During last year's deep freeze, CAA SCO received a record number of calls for service. On January 3, 2014, service was dispatched to over 9,500 members due to the bitterly cold temperatures which caused battery related issues.

To put it into perspective, on an average winter day, CAA SCO receives approximately 3,000 calls for service.

Meanwhile, the cold and frigid temperatures can drain the power from your vehicle's battery. Before you attempt to start your car, make sure you have turned off all your accessories including the heater, radio and lights.

The average life of a car battery is three to five years, but driving conditions, weather and lack of care can shorten the lifespan of a battery.

Here are some warning signs that your battery may need to be replaced:

• Your vehicle cranks slowly when trying to start.
• You hear a grinding, clicking or buzzing when you turn the ignition on.
• Your vehicle has previously stalled.
• Your headlights dim when you are idling but brighten when you rev the engine.

Whenever you need help, you can reach us by downloading the CAA app, visiting www.caasco.com/requestroadside or dialing *222 on your smartphone.

For over a hundred years, CAA has been helping Canadians stay mobile, safe and protected. CAA South Central Ontario is one of nine auto clubs across Canada providing roadside assistance, automotive care, travel products, insurance services and member savings for more than 1.9 million members.

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario

For further information: Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Consultant, CAA SCO, [e-mail], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone] or Jeff LeMoine, Communications Consultant, CAA SCO, [e-mail], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone].