BC Forest Safety Council issues road safety caution

With weather across the province turning to rain, sleet and snow, the BC Forest Safety Council is reminding drivers to use safe winter driving practices when they hit the roads.
MaryAnne Arcand, director of the Council’s Forestry TruckSafe and Northern Initiatives program, says while it may not feel like winter yet, snow has fallen in parts of the province and drivers need to take extra care. In addition, drivers should expect increased traffic on the roads as the hunting season gets underway. 



“Last year there were a number of road accidents over Thanksgiving weekend,” explains Arcand. “We want to remind drivers to stay safe when behind the wheel so we can prevent history from repeating itself.”
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Arcand says complacency and overlooking simple driving tips and techniques can lead to tragedy on the roads. Safe winter driving habits recommended by the BC Forest Safety Council include:

· Wear your seatbelt

· Give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go, especially if you’re travelling in the mountains

· Slow down

· Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you

· Use headlights at all times because of shorter daylight hours and potential foggy weather

· Replace windshield wipers because streaky, patchy, partially cleared windows are a driving hazard

· Clean off all lights, windows and mirrors in order to see and be seen

· Use snow tires and, especially in the case of truck drivers, carry chains

“We’re talking about using simple behaviours in order to save lives,” says Arcand. “Everyone needs to do their part to make the roads safer.”

To find out more information about the Forestry TruckSafe program and the BC Forest Safety Council visit the Council’s web site at www.bcforestsafe.org.