For the first time in four days, there's a major improvement in the weather conditions today (Thursday).
Even though most areas received another significant snowfall overnight, all roads in the region are open and visibility is fair to good.
Plows and graders are making regular patrols.
It could get messy again tomorrow with the arrival of a milder air mass. We can expect a combination of sleet, ice pellets and rain.
Meanwhile, investigations into winter collisions by the OPP reveal a common re-occurring factor in many crashes.
Bruce Peninsula OPP Constable Katrina Rubinstein-Gilbert says it boils down to poor driving, and not poor driving conditions.
She says drivers need to recognize the difference between the two factors.
"Drivers have the ability to avoid causing collisions; there's an important distinction between the two factors and we need drivers to recognize the difference," says PC Rubinstein-Gilbert.
The OPP maintains that driving too fast for road conditions remains the number one cause of winter collisions, the vast majority of which are preventable.
A few tips from the Ontario Provincial Police on winter driving and preparation:
- Driving too fast for road conditions is the number one cause of winter collisions. If you see snow, go slow. Allow yourself extra time to get to and from your destination. If the weather is uncertain, check the forecast before heading out and monitor the media outlets for any updates.
- If winter driving conditions make you nervous, uncomfortable or fearful when you’re behind the wheel, stay off the road unless your trip is absolutely necessary.
- It’s best to carry a winter survival kit with you when you travel. Extra clothing, winter boots, blankets, shovel and snack foods are recommended. Having a candle and waterproof matches can help heat the interior of your vehicle if it stalls or you become stranded.
- Emergencies-If you or anyone else is in need of medical assistance or your stranded vehicle is in a position to cause further disruption to traffic, please call 911 for emergency.
- Non-Emergency-If you do find yourself stranded or in the ditch, due to vehicle break down or collision and you have not sustained injury; call the OPP the non-emergency number 1-888-310-1122. Arrangements will be made to have your vehicle towed.
- If your vehicle is stranded and you have made arrangements for a tow, please call Police at 1-888-310-1122. Let us know the location of your vehicle, vehicle description, licence plate, your contact information and when the vehicle is to be removed. This will ensure additional arrangements are not made for your vehicle to be removed. Make sure your vehicle is not impeding the flow of traffic or snow removal.
