Stay safe this winter!

Squamish

2023-12-11 13:46 PST

As the weather gets colder, and the snow and ice coming down, the Sea to Sky RCMP (Squamish) would like to remind motorists that as of October 1, 2023, vehicles are required to have winter tires on the Sea to Sky Highway.

Highway 99, from Horseshoe Bay North is designated as a Winter Tire Zone by the Minister responsible for the administration of the Transportation Act.

Signs posted on Highway 99 at Horseshoe Bay advise drivers of the regulation that from October 1 – March 31 vehicles must be equipped with a Winter Tire as described under the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations Section 7.162 which reads

7.162 (1) A winter tire under section 208 of the Act must have at least 3.5 mm of tread depth.

(2) A winter tire under section 208 of the Act must:(a) when tested in accordance with section 5 (4) (a) of the Motor Vehicle Tire Safety Regulations (Canada) meet or exceed the traction index prescribed by that section, or

(b) meet the specifications adopted by the Rubber Manufacturers Association to be labelled on a sidewall with the letters M and S.

(3) A winter tire under section 208 of the Act must be labelled on a sidewall by the manufacturer with either of the following:

(a) the 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol as shown in the below picture:

(b) the letters M and S

 

In addition to having winter grade tires, police offer some tips for safe winter driving:

• Winterize your vehicle.
• Pack an emergency kit.
• Learn and practice winter driving techniques before you need them.
• Plan your trip and tell your friends & family. Check road and weather conditions.
• Remove all snow from your vehicle before each trip.
• Give yourself extra travel time, and drive to conditions.
• Avoid using overdrive and cruise control on slippery roads.
• Travel with a fully charged cell phone for emergency situations.

"The Sea to Sky RCMP (Squamish) continue to make efforts to enhance road safety throughout the community.  Increased patrols, high visibility check stops, and targeted enforcement throughout the Sea to Sky Highway will be a top priority during the holiday season." says Sgt. Dallas Langley, Ops NCO of the Sea to Sky RCMP (Squamish)

Released by:

Email: eden.johner@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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