With winter weather conditions returning to Alberta’s roadways this week, RCMP are asking drivers to use caution when dealing with icy roads and blowing snow.
Road reports can be checked at 511.alberta.ca.
According to police, motorists should slow down and drive to the conditions. Drivers can be charged with a traffic offence for going too fast for the conditions.
Alberta RCMP note that you should consider carrying an emergency kit in your vehicle’s truck or cargo space. Pack it full of items including a thermal blanket, extra clothing and outerwear, booster cables, a shovel, a first aid kit, candles and water proof matches, a flashlight with extra batteries, plus sand, road salt, or kitty litter.
Mounties point out that you should also travel with a fully charged cell phone for emergency situations.
RCMP ask that motorists remove all snow from their vehicles before each trip to improve visibility, allow extra time for travel in poor weather, ensure that headlights are working and always on, plus increase following and breaking distances when driving on icy roads.