The Saskatchewan RCMP are asking drivers to check the weather and road conditions before heading out on the highway. A spring storm descended on parts of Saskatchewan Tuesday night and it continues to bring snow and high winds to many regions.
The RCMP says from midnight on April 17 to 8 a.m. Thursday morning, its Operational Communication Centre received 68 reports of motor vehicle collisions and eight reports of weather-related traffic hazards.
Road conditions continued to be poor, in particular, on roads around Saskatoon Thursday.
Advice from the RCMP – If you determine it’s safe to head out, please consider the following winter driving tips:
- Scrape all the ice off your windows before driving – if you can’t see, you can’t drive safely!
- Remove all snow from your vehicle, including from your headlights, taillights and roof.
- Slow down on slippery or snowy roads.
- Be gentle and smooth when you accelerate, brake or steer.
- Using cruise control on icy or snowy roads can be dangerous! If you skid, your vehicle will accelerate and rapidly spin its wheels as it tries to maintain a constant speed.
- Be prepared for anything: consider stocking your vehicle with extra warm clothes, candles, matches, non-perishable snacks, a snow shovel, traction mats, booster cables and a tow rope or chain.
- If you become stranded on the highway, do not leave your vehicle! Turn on your vehicle periodically to warm up but try to conserve fuel. Make sure your tailpipe remains clear of ice and snow, or carbon monoxide could potentially seep into your vehicle.
