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Watch for plows during holiday travel

Dec 21, 2018 | 4:00 PM

Something to keep in mind before you travel during the holiday season.

Highways Assistant Deputy Minister Tom Lees said drivers should watch for snowplows on the road.

“It’s important for motorists to recognize that they’re approaching a plow and they can do that by seeing the flashing lights, blue and amber, on the snowplows,” Lees said. “Lots of times plows will create what we call a mini-blizzard, or it’s a snow zone, and it’s really difficult for motorists to see what is coming up in front of the plow, so slowing down and giving the plows some room to do their work. They’re out there to make sure that they’re making the roads safe for the motoring public.”

Lees said drivers are only encouraged to pass when it is safe to do so, and plows will pull over every few kilometres to allow people to pass.

The plows are out quite this time of year, and not just dealing with snow.

“(Plows) are doing road surveillance on a daily basis, they’re out there monitoring the roads, checking for conditions, and they will be doing various tasks such as sanding or applying salt,” he said.

Lees encouraged drivers to check the Highway Hotline before they travel.

“Road conditions in Saskatchewan can change very quickly, so (drivers should) be cautious when they’re on the roads, especially on days like today,” he said.

Lees clarified the current legislation when it comes to snowplows, as there have been some changes.

Drivers must slow to 60 km/h when passing any plow that is stopped on the side of a highway with its blue and amber lights in operation.

 

cam.lee@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @camlee1974