OPP remind motorists to drive safely during winter weather conditions
The Lennox and Addington County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has issued a reminder to motorists to slow down and drive safely during winter weather conditions.
According to Environment Canada, Kingston and area can expect a messy rain/snow mix tonight, Friday, Jan 15, 2021, turning to intermittent snow on Saturday, and becoming heavier in the night. The expected accumulation is approximately two centimeters, and more snow is forecast during the week.
OPP shared the following safety tips to help everyone arrive at their destination safely in a release dated Friday, Jan, 15, 2021:
- Drive according to current road and weather conditions. Reduce your speed when adverse weather conditions arise.
- Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Remember, longer stopping distances may be required.
- Be able to see and be seen. Clean frost and snow off all windows, mirrors, and lights.
- Consider installing four winter tires on your vehicle, install good wiper blades and keep an ample supply of windshield washer fluid in your vehicle.
- Give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Consider postponing or cancelling your trip if the weather does not improve.
The following is a list of some items to carry in your vehicle, as recommended by the OPP in the release:
- A charged cell phone in case of an emergency
- An ice scraper, snow brush, a small shovel, sand, salt or other traction aid
- Booster cables, road flares, fuel line anti-freeze, and tow rope
- Extra clothing and footwear, a blanket, high energy non-perishable food, matches and a candle
- Flashlight, small tool kit, first aid kit
The number one cause of motor vehicle collisions during snowy conditions is speed, according to the release. Drivers going too fast for road and weather conditions easily lose control of their vehicles.
OPP asks drivers to stay alert, slow down, and stay in control of your vehicle during inclement weather.