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Dangerous road conditions caused by the winter storm kept Saskatchewan RCMP officers busy on Tuesday.
RCMP said in a news release that from midnight until 2 p.m. officers received 47 reports of weather-related calls — which included collisions and vehicles stuck on roadways or ditches — in RCMP jurisdictions across the province.
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Drifting and blowing snow caused by a low pressure system from Alberta swept over the province Tuesday, hindering road conditions and visibility.
Southern Saskatchewan took much the brunt of Tuesday’s storm, with travel not recommended on many highways and roads closed in the Estevan area.
There was reduced visibility in central areas like Saskatoon and Prince Albert, stretching as far east as Porcupine Plain and Wynyard.
Environment Canada meteorologist James Colangelo said Tuesday’s weather system had moved into North Dakota but the winter weather would continue tomorrow, bringing between 2 and 5 cm of snow to many areas.
“So expect to see some snowfall for the afternoon, probably another few centimetres,” said Colangelo.
He said there would be a major drop in temperature as the week progresses, with many areas likely to see lows in the -20 C to -30 C range on Friday and into the weekend.
RCMP said motorists should check road conditions before travelling, and check the weather forecast, adding that if poor weather or road conditions exist or are forecast, they should consider delaying travel if possible.
If travel is necessary, police said drivers should stay on roads that have recently received road maintenance. Travellers can access information on road conditions and see which roads have been plowed, salted, and/or sanded within the last two hours on the Highway Hotline map.
RCMP also asked that people avoid calling 911 or local RCMP detachments for updates on road conditions, adding that the 911 number should only be used for emergencies and crimes in progress. Using it in non-emergency situations could prevent someone with a life-threatening emergency from getting help, they said.
Tips for safe winter driving
Travelling safely during winter driving conditions requires additional attention and skill, RCMP said. When driving on slippery and /or snow-covered surfaces or with reduced visibility, motorists should:
Slow down: Travel at a speed that allows you to keep control of your vehicle, even if this is slower than the speed limit.
Make smooth manoeuvres: Make soft, fluid movements when steering, accelerating, and braking.
Refrain from using cruise control: If you go into a skid while using cruise control, your vehicle will continue to accelerate and the tires will spin, preventing you from stopping your vehicle.
Maintain a safe following distance: Leave additional space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, allowing for sudden stops.
Stay on main roads: Main highways are first to be cleared and travelling on them increases your visibility if you get stranded.
Use your headlights: If it is snowing or raining, drive with your headlights on at all times.
Tips for safe travelling in winter
Saskatchewan RCMP’s website suggests people take the following precautions to help keep drivers, passengers and other road users safe:
Stock your vehicle
All winter travellers should pack an emergency kit to be prepared for serious weather conditions or a roadside emergency, which should include:
- Additional warm clothing (including footwear, mittens, and toques)
- Candles and matches
- A tow chain or rope
- Nourishing, non-perishable food items (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars)
- Drinking water
- A blanket or sleeping bag
- A cellphone and charger
- A first aid kit with seatbelt cutter
- A flashlight
- A snow brush and shovel
- Traction mats, a bag of sand, or non-clumping cat litter for traction
- Booster cables
- Hand warmers
- A whistle
Before you drive
Prepare your vehicle appropriately for weather conditions by:
- Adding antifreeze to your radiator and gas line.
- Putting winter tires on your vehicle.
- Topping up windshield wiper fluid and ensuring windshield wipers are working.
- Scraping your windshield, rear and side windows, and brushing off all snow.
- Cleaning off headlights, tail lights, and signal lights.
- Clearing your heater air intake.
- Moving items away from defroster outlets inside the vehicle.
- Keeping your gas tank more than half full.
- Telling a family member or friend where you’re headed and when you expect to arrive.
- Familiarizing yourself with your route and don’t rely on GPS.
If you are stranded
If you find yourself in an emergency situation where you are stranded roadside:
Always stay with your vehicle: This is your best chance for survival and helps police locate you.
Stay warm: Periodically turn your vehicle on, but be mindful to conserve your fuel and battery. Put on your emergency winter clothing before you get cold, and use candles to keep warm if necessary.
Make sure your tailpipe remains clear: Ice and snow can block it, meaning carbon monoxide could potentially seep into your vehicle.
Get some fresh air: Periodically lower your window slightly on the side of your vehicle that is downwind, allowing for fresh air to enter the vehicle.
Be careful: When shovelling or trying to push your vehicle, do not overexert yourself.
— with files by Roman Hayter
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