SGI is encouraging the public to drive safely and smartly this holiday season. (ID 106757753 © Radila Radilova | Dreamstime.com)

By Keaton Brown

take care out there

A few safety tips for holiday travellers from SGI

Dec 23, 2019 | 3:04 PM

Whether you’re braving the roads to get in some last minute shopping or driving hours away to spend time with family, you need to be prepared for winter conditions on Saskatchewan roadways. With that in mind, SGI is offering some tips to make the holidays safer for everyone.

Scott McGregor, communication consultant for SGI, said Canadian winters bring more weather related collisions – especially with a higher volume of traffic.

“One of the things specific to the holiday season is that there is increased traffic on Saskatchewan roads. People are travelling to and from family, friends or loved one’s houses. With that increased traffic comes increased risk for collisions out there,” he said.

McGregor said there are a few things you can do ahead of travelling to be as safe as possible.

“Before you head out make sure you are best equipped to do so. Check the Highway Hotline to see what conditions are like. Make sure your tires have enough air in them. Brush the snow off your vehicle, not just your windshield but off the whole car as that snow will blow up and obstruct your view. Also, click those headlights on, don’t rely on the auto setting to turn on the lights for you,” he said.

Inflation

Rent inflation to slow in the next few years, Desjardins predicts

13h ago

Fire in Nipawin area

Fire destroys house in R.M. of Torch River

14h ago

Election results

New and familiar faces elected during municipal election in Northeast communities

15h ago

With the higher than seasonal average temperatures this holiday season, Saskatchewan roads can actually become more unpredictable. The constant cycle between melting and freezing can create more ice on the highways.

“When you are driving on the highways avoid using your cruise control because when your cruise control is on it will not know when your tires start to spin and lose traction. Make sure that when approaching an intersection, do so with extreme care. Slow down a bit, go easy on the brakes, and take turns gradually,” he said.

The number one safety concern this time of year is impaired driving and McGregor said one of the easiest ways to make sure you get to where you’re going safely is to do it sober.

“There is no reason to drive impaired as there are so many options for avoiding it. Phone a friend, take a cab, some communities have ride sharing programs, and sleeping over where you are at is another option.”

Last holiday season, two people were killed and 42 people were injured as a result of impaired driving-related collisions in Saskatchewan between Dec. 1 and Jan 3. In total, drugs and alcohol were factors in 43 traffic fatalities in Saskatchewan in 2018.

“Here at SGI we want to make sure everyone is taking care out there and get where they are going safely. We wish everyone a merry Christmas or whatever they happen to celebrate and we want everyone to have a safe holiday season.”

—

Keaton.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsnow