Saskatchewan’s weather today (Thurs) has seen a bit of everything – snow, freezing rain, rain and high winds, which has drastically impacted road conditions and visibility in some areas. Between midnight and noon, Saskatchewan RCMP received around 43 reports of weather-related traffic issues, including multiple vehicle collisions as well as vehicles and semis stuck in the ditch. With the temperatures plummeting tonight, the roads will be icy.

RCMP urge motorists to delay travel on the highway if you are able, and if you can’t, check the Highway Hotline for road conditions and possible closures.

Here are some winter driving tips from the RCMP:

• 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.