Plan ahead, take precautions to ensure road safety in winter conditions

VANCOUVER - With snow flurries in the forecast on the south coast of British Columbia, drivers are reminded to plan ahead and take appropriate precautions for travel in winter weather.

To stay aware of road conditions, check DriveBC before leaving, especially when snow or freezing temperatures are in the forecast. During inclement weather, drivers are advised to avoid travel, if possible. People who must travel are urged to use caution and only drive if their vehicles are winter-ready and properly equipped with winter tires (M+S or mountain snowflake). Drivers should also carry appropriate emergency supplies for all travellers in the vehicle.

At this time of year, weather conditions can change quickly. The Ministry of Transportation and Transit's contractors monitor weather closely during this time of year and proactively apply anti-icing brine to road surfaces to be prepared when freezing temperatures are in the forecast.

The Port Mann and Alex Fraser bridges are equipped with cable-collar systems that remove ice and snow from the bridge cables, ensuring vehicles and passengers remain safe when crossing. Advanced weather data collection ensures crews are prepared to activate these systems to remove snow in bad weather as quickly as possible.

When necessary, partial or full closures of certain bridges and roads may be necessary to ensure driver safety. The ministry will update people as quickly as possible about any closures via DriveBC, and through other methods, such as social media, signage and traffic advisories to local media.

Drivers are reminded to give snowplows space to work safely this winter. Stay well back, never pass, and be patient. Operators are clearing the way to keep everyone safe on B.C. roads. Drivers can further support maintenance crews by moving over safely when a vehicle with an amber light approaches.

Learn More:

For resources and tips on how to stay safe on the road this winter, including a downloadable vehicle-emergency-kit checklist, visit Shift into Winter: https://www.shiftintowinter.ca

To learn more about winter tire requirements in B.C., and for a list of highways that winter tires are required on, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/wintertires

Check up-to-date road conditions before travelling here: https://www.drivebc.ca