Once outside temperatures remain below +10°C it is time to switch to winter tires. During late fall and early winter, roads will constantly be wet and slippery. Winter tires offer much more grip under these conditions than summer tires. All-season tires begin to lose their grip once temperatures drop below +7°C and are useless for any temperature below -10°C. Summer tires can turn as hard as plastic in the winter. Winter tires are designed with flexible treads for below-zero temperatures and have more treads to allow the tire to expel water and slush and grip onto ice.
Although winter tires offer extra protection against unpleasant surprises during the cold season, adapting your driving behaviour to cold driving conditions is also recommended. Keep in mind that stopping distances are different and brake accordingly. Beware of other motorists that may not have adjusted their driving habits to the wintry conditions and be extra vigilant.