Winter storm warnings are a reminder to prepare before hitting the road

REGINA – The storm that is bearing down on a large portion of southern Saskatchewan is likely just one of many we can expect in our province this winter.

It’s a reminder that one of the biggest challenges during the winter months is getting around safely.

“Anticipate that at the moment the road may be dry and things look good,” said Ron Hromek, an instructor at the Saskatchewan Safety Council. “But, five minutes from now we might be on ice and visibility is poor.”

Hromek said the weather warnings are a reminder to ensure your vehicle is properly maintained and you have an emergency kit.

The province has a priority system in place for clearing the highways.

“On the most heavily travelled routes (our level one highways), our goal is to have the driving lanes clear of snow within six hours of the end of a storm,” said Doug Wakabayashi with the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure.

The Highway Hotline is updated at least three times a day and receives more than four million hits a year.

If you choose to take the bus and the highways are in poor condition, know that your trip could be delayed or cancelled.

“Our drivers have the ability to make the call or not whether it’s safe to move forward,” said Candace Phelps, executive director with STC. “They take the safety of our customers as the number one priority.”

School buses might also be delayed, which is a reminder for parents to dress kids appropriately if they are waiting outdoors.

“If there’s a chance they think the buses are delayed because of traffic, because of snow blockade, and other things, then parents shouldn’t necessarily assume that the buses will be on time,” said Terry Lazarou with Regina Public Schools.

If you do find yourself stuck in bad weather, Hromek said turn your lights on, do not follow too closely, slow down and be prepared that you might not get where you want to go.