Whitecourt RCMP are offering safety tips for driving in whiteout conditions as winter storms are forecast for Whitecourt and Woodlands County.
Motorists should prepare for potential whiteouts, as Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) predicts up to 30 centimetres of snow by the end of Wednesday.
The RCMP says whiteout conditions can come on rapidly and cause severely reduced visibility for drivers and hazardous driving conditions. Travellers are advised to prepare for the chance of being stuck in snow or off the roadway for extended periods of time.
Whitecourt RCMP recommends the following safety tips for driving during heavy snowfall:
- Make alternate plans. If your road trip isn’t critically important, reschedule for the next day or when the weather clears.
- Keep up with maintenance on your vehicle. Ensure you have appropriate tires for winter travel, a full tank of fuel, and that all preventative maintenance is up to date.
- Prepare an emergency kit that includes snacks and water; extra socks, boots, and gloves; hand warmers and blankets; and a snow brush. Leave it in an accessible place in your vehicle.
- If possible, have a cellphone and charger with you to call for assistance if necessary. Police say if your vehicle is stuck off the highway in a whiteout, it is safest to stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt and hazard lights on. Avoid running the vehicle if the exhaust cannot evacuate into open air.
