Saskatchewan RCMP are reminding everyone to avoid unnecessary travel, considering the road conditions in several parts of the province with this blizzard. Officers are responding to an increased number of traffic-related calls and collisions. Check the highway hotline before travelling, and stay home if travel is not recommended.

The RCMP advise drivers to stock your vehicle with extra warm clothes, candles, matches, non-perishable snacks, a shovel, traction mats, booster cables and a tow rope or chain. It’s also advised if you become stranded on the highway, don’t leave your vehicle. Turn it on periodically to warm up, but try to conserve fuel, and make sure your tailpipe remains clear of ice and snow or carbon monoxide could potentially seep into your vehicle.

As of 5:30 p.m. Monday, Highway 12 was completely blocked south and north of Blaine Lake. RCMP advise that the area should be avoided because the driving conditions are treacherous. The Petrofka Bridge on Highway 12 is obstructed, as of 5:30 Monday night, with a jackknifed semi north of the bridge and several other semis south of the bridge.

North and South of Blain Lake on Highway 12, police are reporting that between 40 and 60 vehicles are stuck in the snow and all traffic is blocked. Constable Ryan Warner of Blaine Lake RCMP says if you are in one of these vehicles, stay inside. We know you are there, help is coming, and don’t forget to ensure your tailpipe remains clear of snow. If you run out of gas, call 310-RCMP.