Motor Vehicle Safety Tips

January 6, 2025

Brandon, MB – Now that winter is upon us, our temperatures have dipped well below freezing.  This can cause challenges when starting your vehicle on those frosty mornings. Brandon Fire & Emergency Services is reminding the public to take precautions when it comes to vehicle safety.  

YOUR VEHICLE PRODUCES DEADLY CARBON MONOXIDE

• Remove vehicles from the garage right away after starting. 
• Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor in a garage, even if garage doors are open.
• Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice or other materials.
• If your vehicle has an automatic engine starter, check to make sure your vehicle is off if it is in the garage.
• Your vehicle produces carbon monoxide which can be extremely harmful and can possibly cause death to people and pets.

PLUGGING IN YOUR VEHICLE

• It is not necessary to plug in your vehicle if you're parking it in a garage.
• Regularly inspect your extension cords. Don’t allow your cord to dangle or drive over it.
• Fires can result from frayed extension cords or worn-out block heater plugs.
• The block heater cord is often located near the bottom of the vehicle near the engine heat and can become damage from the elements.
• When not in use, cover the end of the block heater cord with the plastic cap.  Salt and sand on the roads can cause corrosion.