Recent freezing rain and snow are impacting road conditions in much of Saskatchewan.
From noon on December 27 to 11 a.m. on December 28, Saskatchewan RCMP's Operational Communication Centre received 59 reports of motor vehicle collisions and 37 non-collision weather-related reports, such as traffic hazards and vehicles in the ditch.
This includes a jack-knifed semi and trailer east of Kindersley, resulting in the closure of Highway #7, as we reported early this morning.
It also includes a collision on Highway #1, near Beverley, SK on December 27 at approximately 7:05 p.m. Investigation by Swift Current Rural RCMP determined a tow truck operator was hooking up a stuck semi at the side of the road. A second semi collided with the tow truck/stuck semi. Three people were taken to hospital: a passenger in the stuck semi with injuries described as serious but non-life-threatening; the tow truck operator with injuries described as non-life-threatening; and the driver of the stuck semi, as a precaution. Swift Current Rural RCMP continue to investigate the collision.
Road conditions continue to be poor in some parts of the province and some road closures are still in place. If you can, postpone your travel plans. If not, before travelling, please check road conditions/closures along your planned route on the Highway Hotline at https://hotline.gov.sk.ca/.
We also would like to remind drivers of the following winter driving tips:
- Scrape all the ice off your windows before driving – if you can't see, you can't drive safely!
- Remove all snow from your vehicle, including from your headlights, taillights and roof.
- Slow down on slippery or snowy roads.
- Be gentle and smooth when you accelerate, brake or steer.
- Using cruise control on icy or snowy roads can be dangerous! If you skid, your vehicle will accelerate and rapidly spin its wheels as it tries to maintain a constant speed.
- Be prepared for anything: consider stocking your vehicle with extra warm clothes, candles, matches, non-perishable snacks, a snow shovel, traction mats, booster cables and a tow rope or chain.
- If you become stranded on the highway, do not leave your vehicle! Turn on your vehicle periodically to warm up, but try to conserve fuel. Make sure your tailpipe remains clear of ice and snow, or carbon monoxide could potentially seep into your vehicle.