Dorothy Westerman
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Oct 04/04) - The time to learn how to change a flat tire or fix a fan belt is not on the side of the road along a dark, empty stretch of the Dempster Highway.

"Flat tires are the most common problem vehicles have up in this region," according to Neil Flynn, host of the upcoming Introduction to Car Maintenance program in Inuvik.

Flynn said knowing how to fix a problem before it causes a break-down is vital in this harsh winter clime.

"Probably about 60 per cent of people don't know how to change a tire or find the jack. It's not something we pay attention to," Flynn said.

"And having the proper tire pressure is important when you begin a road trip," he added.

Hence, the information session Oct. 13-14, designed to provide basic knowledge about vehicle maintenance and repair -- and those squeaks and groans that may emit from one's vehicle as it revs to life after a long

-40C night.

Flynn said difficulties with block heaters, batteries or electrical problems are frequent in the cold.

Being held at Aurora College, this year's two-evening course already has its limit of about 12 participants.

"This year there is only one man in the course," Flynn said, indicating women have a great interest in the subject.

The course will be mainly knowledge-based, without much "hands-on fixing", Flynn said.

The participants will be shown how to check fluids and tire pressure levels and then will learn where the vehicle's equipment --such as the spare tire and jack -- is located.

"It will acquaint people with normal maintenance procedures."

Flynn said his safety precautions for driving in the North include such tips as always keeping spare oil, antifreeze, a tire repair kit and an extra fan belt in the vehicle. "It is a general motorist's education, which can help identify upcoming problems," he said.