(MIDDLESEX COUNTY, ON) – The word is out. Snow is on its way this weekend and the good news is there is time to prepare. Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) wants to remind drivers to plan ahead, stay alert and drive according to the conditions. Collisions are not weather related, they are driver related and all drivers have a responsibility to ensure their journey is a safe one.
To plan ahead drivers can keep an eye on the forecast, make sure their fluid levels are topped up, including washer fluid and gas. Check all four tires for proper tire pressure and tread level. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. If at all possible, make other plans, don’t take the risk and stay home.
To stay alert drivers need to remove all distractions. Put the cellphones and all other temptations away. When driving, look ahead and beyond the next curve for emergency vehicles, wildlife, road maintenance vehicles and poor road conditions. Expect the unexpected.
To drive according to the road conditions, motorists are reminded that posted speed limits apply to optimal road and weather conditions. If the weather or road conditions get worse, drivers simply need to slow down. Don’t assume your headlights are on, make sure of it and keep them on. Make yourself be seen. Leave lots of space between you and the other vehicle in front of you. Stay in control.
Police, fire and ambulance crews respond to numerous motor vehicle collisions during adverse weather conditions putting themselves at extreme risk. Drivers are urged to obey the law. If they approach an emergency vehicle, they must slow down, proceed with caution and if a lane is available and it is safe to do so, they must move into that other lane.