If you don’t have your winter tires yet, now is the time to get them.
Paul Powar with Tire Capital in Prince George told MyPGNow.com with a potential tire shortage looming, drivers should take advantage of the available stock while they can.
“There is a production and supply issue like anything today, but we are stocked up pretty good right now, but once that supply runs out in our current inventory and our suppliers then there will be nothing available.”
Powar also explained the difference winter tires can make during the chilly season.
“It could be life-saving. The difference in stopping even 20 feet or 50 feet shorter is a massive difference for us because we drive on hardpack for about four months a year versus someone in Kamloops and Kelowna where they don’t.”
Powar added they are taking vehicles on a first-come, first-serve basis and are usually full with clients by about 8:30 every morning.
In BC, winter tires are now mandatory for all vehicles on most provincial highways including the north until the spring.
In B.C., appropriate winter tires are defined as those with either the M+S (mud and snow) or mountain/snowflake symbol, in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimeters.
Drivers without the proper winter tires in good condition driving on designated B.C. highways can receive a fine of $121.
Commercial vehicle operators are required to carry chains on most routes in the province as indicated by road signs.
Winter tires and chain requirements are in effect on most designated highways in B.C. until March 31st.