OPP tell motorists to slow down

The Chatham-Kent Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are reminding motorists to drive according to weather and road conditions during this most recent winter weather.

There is no secret to safe winter driving. If you see snow, go slow. Make sure you look far ahead when you drive so you can recognize hazards in advance and have plenty of time to respond. Always adjust you driving to current weather and road conditions and reduce your speed when the roads are slippery or slushy. Remember bridges and overpasses freeze more quickly and stay frozen longer.

Check weather and travel conditions before heading out. Don’t take chances if the weather is bad. Allow yourself extra time for travel or wait until conditions improve. Call 511 for information about current road conditions or go online at Ontario.ca/trip. This service is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week and road conditions are normally updated five times daily and more often as highway closures occur or as conditions change.

It’s best to carry a winter survival kit with you when you travel. Extra clothing, winter boots, blankets, and snack foods are recommended. Having a candle and waterproof matches can help heat the interior of your vehicle if it stalls or you become stranded.

If winter driving conditions make you nervous, uncomfortable or fearful when you’re behind the wheel, stay off the road unless your trip is absolutely necessary.

The OPP reminds you to drive with extra care this winter and to always drive according to weather and road conditions.