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Winter conditions in downtown Vernon (Vernon Matters file photo)
By Liam Verster
Shift into Winter

Vernon drivers advised to be cautious with change to winter conditions

Oct 18, 2022 | 4:00 PM

The mercury is dropping overnight and rain is in the forecast, creating more potential risks for local drivers.

With the winter driving conditions now approaching Vernon and the North Okanagan, the Road Safety at Work and Winter Driving Safety Alliance groups are urging caution behind the wheel.

The groups, which organize the Shift Into Winter campaign, say the upcoming conditions, coupled with driving too fast for conditions, result in rising instances of casualty crashes in the region each year.

“No matter how much experience you have, driving in rain, fog, snow, or icy conditions can be treacherous in Vernon and around the North Okanagan,” stated Road Safety at Work (RSAW) program director Trace Acres.

“The best way to help keep yourself and your passengers safe is to start preparing for winter now and plan ahead. Waiting until the first storm hits is too late.”

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Motorists are advised to install winter tires, as required by law on area highways, adjust driving attitudes, and prepare themselves and their vehicles for winter conditions.

The organizations recommend people conduct a pre-winter maintenance check up on their vehicle to ensure everything is in working order, and to prepare and store an emergency kit in their vehicle that includes warm clothes and blankets, food and water, flashlight, radio and batteries.

It is also advised that people check road and weather conditions prior to getting behind the wheel.

Additionally, RSAW asks that people slow down, increase following distances, and accelerate and brake slowly when driving in winter conditions.

“Driving in winter conditions is a risk every single time you get behind the wheel,” said Acres.

“We all need to understand that and do our part to improve our winter driving behaviours and practices.”

by Liam Verster
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