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Media Release: QRTC’s reminding everyone to take precautions when it comes to winter driving

Distributed on behalf of the Quinte Region Traffic Coalition  

Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/Jan. 31, 2024

Winter weather can impact driving conditions, which can become extremely dangerous over the winter months. Anytime between November to March, residents should be taking precautions to avoid collisions, and get home safely.

One of the main ways to avoid collisions is by slowing down and leaving space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. It can take longer to stop on slippery roads, and if conditions are slick, it may be difficult to stop at all. It may take longer than normal to get to your destination, but arriving safely outweighs the potential inconvenience of a longer drive. Many collisions happen because drivers are going too fast for the wintery conditions. Plan to leave earlier than normal or give yourself as much extra time as possible to get to where you need to be.

“Having patience is also important when driving in winter conditions,” says Aaron Miller, Regional Media Coordinator with Ontario Provincial Police. “Snowplows need time and space to clear the roads. Visibility may be reduced, and roads may be slippery or snow covered. Planning to add extra time to your drive could help you avoid feeling rushed and help you avoid a potential collision.”

Did You Know?

There is a free app to let you know the updated road conditions all over Ontario. You can also dial 5-1-1 or check Twitter @511Ontario.

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Media Contacts

Aaron Miller

Regional Media Coordinator

aaron.miller@opp.ca

About the QRTC

The Quinte Region Traffic Coalition (QRTC) is a partnership of Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, Belleville Police Service, OPP SAVE Team, OPP East Region Highway Safety Division, Ministry of Transportation, and the Bancroft, Central Hastings, Lennox and Addington County, Prince Edward County, and Quinte West OPP Detachments. The QRTC aims to reduce the number of incidents resulting in injuries and deaths on roads, trails, and waterways in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties.

About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

We invite community partners and residents to share this Media Release with their respective networks.

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