Remaining safe on our winter roads is a joint responsibility. Road maintenance is important however the driver is ultimately responsible for the safety of passengers and others.

Here are some recommended winter driving tips:
– Know the road conditions before you travel and be prepared
– Always drive slower speeds than posted on snow or ice covered roads
– Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Being attentive is more important as winter roads conditions are variable
– Use Winter tires, studs are recommended, that are properly inflated
– Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up
– Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (snow, ice or rain)
– Always look and steer where you want to go
– Slow down for maintaince and emergency vehicles, or vehicles on the road side

When you see a maintaince snow plow on the road, please slow down and proceed with caution. Snow plows are built to remove large volumes of snow and ice and are very heavy—they can crush you like a tin can.

The driver is watching the road, the snow, potential obstacles and dangers – there is a good chance that are not watching you. Give the time and space to the vehicles at work for you. Only pass a snow plow when it is safe and legal to do so.

Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped with these items should you face an emergency situation or become stranded:
– Cell phone and charger
– Tire chains, a bag of gravel, or traction mat
– Emergency flares
– Tow strap
– Flashlight
– Warm clothes or a blanket
– First-aid kit
– Water and high energy snacks
– Snow Shovel
– Windshield scraper and snow brush
– Extra windshield washer fluid

We wish you and your family safe travels on Fernie’s wintery roads and a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See more here for road reports, highway cams, weather forecasts and Everything Fernie.