Medicine Hat city police have reported 25 weather-related collisions since Friday evening, and are reminding motorists to be aware of winter road conditions, especially on side streets.--NEWS PHOTO
bmiller@medicinehatnews.com
Since the snow started to fall last Friday night, Medicine Hat police have reported 25 weather-related collisions and say side streets are particularly hazardous due to snow accumulation.
Police were not able to release information regarding injuries in any of the 25 collisions, but confirmed all were related to snow and ice on roads.
MHPS Sgt. Mike Fischer says city crews have done a good job clearing main routes, however side streets have become particularly slippery and require motorists to slow down for the snowy conditions.
“Slow down and drive to the road conditions, make sure that you leave more time to get to your destination,” says Fischer. “Also leave more room for stopping distances between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.”
Police are also reminding motorists to make sure they’re driving with tires approved for winter conditions with enough trend remaining.
One of the big things is to make sure your tires are up to snuff,” Fischer says, and for motorists to ensure they can safely see while driving by removing all snow and ice from windows and mirrors.
If you plan on driving on the highway, police say it’s important to be prepared for unexpected delays and the chance you may get stranded somewhere.
“If you’re going on the highway make sure that you have yourself a safety kit,” explains Fischer. “You have warm clothing in the vehicle, you have a snow shovel, make sure your cell phone is fully charged. Just make sure that you’re prepared for going on the roadway.”
The city and local firefighters are also reminding residents to be cautious around rivers and ponds.
Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services says ice can be unpredictable and says to stay off any ice unless it has officially been deemed safe, stating the river is always off limits.
“You can’t tell if it’s safe just by looking at it,” reads a social media post. “Skate in designated areas only.”
A full list of outdoor and indoor ice surfaces available for the public can be found on the city’s website through the ‘Arts, Heritage, Parks & Recreation’ tab.
The city is also seeking volunteers for its Adopt-a-Rink program who are interested in maintaining a community ice rink throughout the winter when necessary.
Seven locations still require volunteers, including Leinweber pond, Palliser Crescent rink, Southlands Park rink, Southridge Community pond, Viterra Park rink and the Crokicurl rink at Strathcona Island Park.
Volunteers are supplied with shovels and hoses, as well as training and some removal support from city crews, and will be asked to maintain, flood and shovel ice for residents.
An application form can be found on the city’s website.
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