Staff reporter
With the amount of accumulated snowfall in the area rising faster than the temperature plunged over the past little while, Rimbey RCMP offer a number of winter driving tips that may help ensure a safe arrival and could very well end up saving lives.
“The posted speed limits are for ideal driving conditions and obviously, the current situation out there is far from ideal, so it’s best to slow down, stay alert and always try to stay in control of the vehicle,” said Sgt. Mark Groves. “With the slippery conditions on roads and highways, it’s also a good idea to keep a safe distance between yourself and the vehicles ahead of you. Drivers also need to be a bit more realistic when driving in the winter in regards to travel time and should adjust their schedules to accommodate the extra time needed to reach their destinations.”
Groves also pointed out that with the onset of winter, many may be transporting firewood or other items and it is imperative that loads in the back of trucks be properly secured. Most importantly of all however, is ensuring vehicles are equipped with both winter tires and a survival kit.
Going hand in hand with the arrival of winter is the holiday season and for those planning on enjoying a few drinks at Christmas and/or New Year’s Eve events, Groves said the RCMP will be on the lookout and is imploring partiers to make sure they have an alternative mode of transportation rather than climbing behind the wheel.
“The RCMP will continue to conduct random check stops during the upcoming weeks of Christmas and new year’s celebrations. Once again, the RCMP remind motorists not to drink and drive at any time of the year,” Groves said. “Drivers should plan ahead and take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their passengers safe when attending an event where there may be drinking.”