A safety reminder from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure: Over the Family Day long weekend, many British Columbians will be travelling to visit friends and family. It is important that everyone stays safe, as heavy snowfall, freezing rain, poor visibility and icy conditions are expected to continue. Heavy snowfall warnings have been issued in the Cariboo, northern B.C., Kootenays and Columbia regions, and it is important to plan ahead, drive to the conditions and arrive safely.
Some helpful tips for traveling in winter driving conditions this long weekend include:
* Check the weather forecast and adjust travel times to more favourable conditions, or choose alternate routes.
* For current road conditions, check DriveBC before you leave, as well as the nearly 700 highway webcam views available at more than 380 locations throughout B.C.
* Wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement while driving, but bring warm clothing (winter boots, coat, gloves and hat) in case you need to get out of your vehicle.
* Have an emergency plan, and ensure your vehicle is equipped with a windshield scraper and snow brush, food and water, a first aid kit and other emergency supplies.
* If you get stuck or stranded, don’t panic. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth, and if you have a cell phone, call for roadside assistance. If there is an emergency, call 911.
Have a wonderful Family Day Long weekend, and be safe.
Neil
@neiltalks
nmorrison@pulsefm.ca