Melfort and surrounding areas are being reminded to slow down while driving after this years first snowfall.
On Nov. 10, residents of Melfort and surrounding areas woke up to shovel their driveways and sweep off their cars.
A snowfall warning was issued from Environment Canada at roughly 10:30 a.m for many ideas in the northeast including Melfort, Nipawin, Tisdale and Carrot River.
Mel Levesque, owner-operator at Eagle Towing, said they have had to put a few people out of the ditch today.
“People were just going too fast usually for their driving skills.”
SGI has issued winter driving tips to keep Saskatchewan drivers safe while travelling in the snow.
For those hoping to drive around today they should prepare their cars in the following ways:
- Have a set of winter tires to give your car better traction;
- Install a block heater to make it easier to start your engine in the cold;
- Carry a snow brush to clear excess snow that accumulates overnight or throughout the workday;
- Carry a snow shovel. If your car becomes stuck, this may prevent having to call a tow truck;
- Carry booster cables and refresh yourself on how to use them.
For those planning out of town trips, there are a few additional items needed in case of emergencies:
- An extra warm set of clothes. This includes items such as gloves, toque and mittens;
- Candles and matches. In case your car breaks down, this provides heat and light for those stuck inside of the car;
- A tow chain and rope. For those who are stuck in the ditch, you may be able to help them or they can help you;
- Non-perishable and nutritious foods, like nuts, raisins, granola bars, candy, juice and water;
- Sleeping bags will provide warmth for those waiting for a tow truck or other rescue services.
Levesque said that there are two main things that Melfort residents can do today to help prevent winter accidents.
“If they can get their winter tires on and slow down that would help a great deal.”
Travel is not recommended right now in Melfort and Tisdale due to reduced visibility, icy or slipper sections, loose snow, pack snow and drifting snow.
northeastNOW also received reports of a semi crash on highway 368 near Pathlow shortly before publication. The highway is down to single lane traffic as of 4:30 p.m.
For more information on highway conditions before venturing anywhere this winter, visit the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline.
Visit SGI’s Facebook page for more information on winter driving conditions and how to stay safe.
You can reach Eagle Towing on Facebook for more information about towing services.
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Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com
On Twitter: @RachelMayFM