Ontario Provincial Police are reminding drivers to use extra caution as winter weather continues to affect road conditions across the province.
Freezing rain, snow, and icy surfaces are making travel difficult and unpredictable in many areas. OPP are asking people to avoid travelling unless it is necessary, noting that staying off the roads helps keep everyone safer.
For those who must travel, police encourage drivers to slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and allow extra time to reach their destination. Motorists are also reminded to follow Slow Down and Move Over laws when approaching emergency vehicles or roadside stops. Clearing all ice and snow from vehicles before leaving, turning on full headlights even during the day, and making sure vehicles have a full tank of gas and a charged cell phone are also important safety steps. Drivers are encouraged to carry an emergency kit with warm clothing, blankets, food, water, and a phone charger.
Before heading out, OPP recommend checking road conditions through 511 Ontario and monitoring weather updates from Environment Canada.
In an emergency, residents are reminded to call 911. For non-emergency police matters, the OPP can be reached at 1-888-310-1122.
Written by: K. Milhomens