Mounties are reminding those on the highways this long weekend to “buckle up,” as one of several tips to stay safe on the roadways.
One of note is wearing a seatbelt, as RCMP says this is one of the “easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself in a motor vehicle collision.”
As winter continues to persist in the province, they also advise motorists to ensure they are road-worthy before they go.
That includes scraping off all the ice on windows before putting it into drive, slowing down on icy or snowy roads and being prepared for anything.
For longer trips, they suggest people stock their vehicle with extra warm clothes matches, non-perishable snacks, a snow shovel, traction mats, booster cables and a tow rope or chain.
If you become stranded along a rural road, RCMP caution people to stay in their vehicles.
Turn it on periodically to warm up, but try to conserve fuel. Also, make sure your tailpipe remains clear of ice and snow.
“The safety of Albertans is always our first priority”, said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic, in a news release.
“You will see RCMP out on the roadways this long weekend to ensure drivers are following the rules of the road and that everyone gets where they are going safely.”
A fog advisory was issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada early Saturday for southern Alberta.
While Calgary is no longer affected by the advisory, it continues for Brooks, Vulcan, and Strathmore areas, with the ECCC saying it should end in the afternoon.
“If travelling, be prepared for areas of near-zero visibility. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop,” a notice from the ECCC reads.