With the first big snow storm of the season on it’s way, police are reminding motorists about winter driving skills.
Grey County OPP Media Relations Officer Steve Starr says these first storms are especially treacherous.
Starr explains that because surface temperatures are still relatively warm, conditions are on the roads can quickly become slippery when the snow arrives.
He points to last Friday when the first significant snowfall of the year saw 25 crashes – including a double fatality – investigated in Grey County alone.
Starr says with plenty of advance warning that this storm is coming, drivers should plan ahead and even cancel unnecessary trips if possible.
Then, before you even get behind the wheel Starr recommends you get snow tires.
He says they make a huge difference and tremendously improve your ability to handle your vehicle.
He also reminds you to make sure you completely clean your vehicle of snow, taking special note of both the windows and the lights.
Once you head out – take it slow.
Starr says drivers always tell him crashes weren’t their fault because the roads were icy – but he says there’s a reason that other cars make it through safely.
Starr says another major point is to make sure you have your lights on – not just your daytime running lights, but your headlights.
Finally – Starr says you need to obey closed road signs and barricades.
He says every year it’s frustrating to see motorists get themselves into trouble when they try to use a closed road and then put emergency responders in danger.
Starr says keep tuned to Bayshore Broadcasting because the radio is the first avenue police use to spread the word about road closures and conditions.
There is a winter storm warning in effect for our entire region and we could see 15 to 45 cm of snow over the next few days.