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January 18 E-Alert


Winter Has Arrived!!

Snow can mean many things to many people. Some wake up in awe of how it changes the landscape while others wake up in angst at the thought of driving to work or school. While the kids love it and are happy to play in it all day long, local roads can be challenging for motorists.

Central Saanich Police Service is reminding motorists to be extra cautious when driving in our current weather conditions. Ideally, when there is a weather pattern of significant snow (as it is today) it is recommended to stay home and not drive.

However, if you must drive the following are a few tips to review prior to driving: 

First and foremost please slow down;
Increase your distance between you and the car in front of you significantly;
Allow time to react to unpredictable circumstances in front of you;
If daytime temperatures increase, the snow can melt and when temperatures drop again becomes black ice. If you do encounter black ice do not slam on your brakes. Try to reduce your speed by easing off the accelerator and shifting into a lower gear if possible;
If you need to use the brakes, know the differences between using standard and anti-lock brakes (ABS);
For standard brakes, pump them gently; for ABS, apply steady pressure and you’ll feel the brakes pulse (this is normal don’t panic if you feel the pulsating of the brakes);
Be extra careful of pedestrians on the sidewalk or roadway. It is icy for them too and they may easily slip and fall onto the roadway.

If you are out walking in the snow please be extra careful of the road and sidewalk conditions.  Always walk facing traffic and be aware that vehicles may slide off of the roadway and possibly in your path.

Homeowners and businesses are reminded to clear the sidewalks in front of their property.  It is a by-law in most communities but it is also the right thing to do.

For up to date driving conditions and webcams, please visit the Drive BC website.

Stay Safe

Pat Bryant
Central Saanich Police Service
1903 Mt.Newton Cross Road
Saanichton B.C. V8M 2A9
E-mail
 
Tel 250.652.4441
Fax 250.652.0354