October 31 is the critical date—by November 1, road salt application typically begins on QEW and escarpment routes, creating slippery conditions. All-season tires lose traction below 7°C; winter tires provide 30-40% better grip on salt-treated roads. If you drive escarpment routes for commuting, install winter tires by mid-October to ensure safety during sudden weather changes.

Choose winter tires with high sipe density (over 100 sipes) for salt-road grip, asymmetric tread patterns for cornering stability on escarpment curves, and three-peak mountain snowflake rating certifying extreme-condition performance. Brands specifically tested for salt-road performance are recommended. Avoid summer tire treads (symmetrical patterns) as they offer poor ice grip.

Salt spray and humidity damage tires stored in garages. Wash tires with fresh water before storage to remove salt residue; use clean rims or plastic bags to isolate tires from metal wheels; store in cool, dark locations away from direct sun or ozone sources (avoid furnace rooms). Inspect for sidewall cracking before the next winter installation, as salt-induced damage may be visible during storage.