Released on December 6, 2016
Today, Highways and Infrastructure Minister David Marit officially launched the annual provincial Snow Zone campaign, reminding people to slow down, stay back and stay safe when meeting snowplows.“Snowplow operators are often the first people out on the highway, clearing snow, so everyone else can travel safely,” Marit said. “Please slow down when approaching a plow in operation so they can do their job for you.”
Snowplows create mini blizzards when plowing, called the Snow Zone, which can impact visibility. Stay patient and remember that snowplows pull over about every 10 kms to give drivers the opportunity to pass.
It’s illegal to pass snow removal equipment at more than 60 km/hr when its lights are flashing. A new blue and amber lighting sequence was introduced last winter to distinguish snow removal equipment in operation from other vehicles also using amber lights.
Public safety ads on radio, billboards, and online, along with regular social media updates will occur throughout the winter to remind people about snowplow safety.
People are urged to know before they go by checking the Highway Hotline, Saskatchewan’s provincial road information system. The latest available road condition information can be found at www.saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline with links to interactive maps for desktop computers and mobile devices.
Follow the Highway Hotline on Twitter @SKGovHwyHotline for alerts, while general information can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SaskatchewanHighwayHotline.
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For more information, contact:
Dan Palmer
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4805
Email: dan.palmer@gov.sk.ca