Kevin Laliberte
Editor, Smoky River Express

Last week’s tragic Greyhound bus roll-over which claimed three innocent lives along Highway 43 near Bezanson should serve as a vivid reminder to all motorists about the danger of deteriorating driving conditions at this time of year. A five-month-old baby and his mother were among the three victims of a horrific accident early Tuesday morning, when a Greyhound bus skidded on an icy stretch of the highway and rolled into the ditch. The third victim was a 72-year-old woman. The victims were among 28 passengers on an overnight bus travelling on Highway 43 between Edmonton to Grande Prairie when it rolled into a ditch near the town of Bezanson – located about 50 kilometres east of Grande Prairie. It’s a tragic reminder to all of us about changing winter weather conditions and some of the unique challenges motorists face on area highways and rural roads each winter. Don’t let the fact that winter doesn’t officially release its icy grip on us for more than a month (Dec. 22 to be exact) fool you. As Albertans, we’re all well aware of how quickly the weather can take a turn for the worse at this time of the year. Yup, it’s a totally new ball game out there with sagging temperatures and the return of snow, freezing rain and black ice highlighting the need for all motorists to adjust our driving habits accordingly in preparation of the transition from fall to winter. Let’s face it. Winter travel in Alberta can be extremely stressful and unpredictable, regardless of whether it’s a short trip down the road or a trek across the province. Either way, the key is to be prepared by expecting the unexpected. And that common sense approach begins by having a full automotive check-up carried out on your vehicle by a certified mechanic to ensure it’s ready for whatever Old Man Winter sends your way. Things to take into consideration as we prepare for the coming deep freeze include changing our all-season tires to snow tires in an effort to provide better traction. You may also want to look at installing heavy-duty windshield wipers to improve visibility. One of the necessities you won’t want to leave home without is an emergency kit, complete with things such as an axe, tools, blanket, booster cables, candles, a compass, emergency food supplies, extra clothing, first aid supplies, flares, an ice scraper, sand or cat litter and a shovel (in case you become stuck), water proof matches, a map, cellular telephone and batteries. Highway safety advocates also recommend that you keep the gas tank at least half full, and add gasoline antifreeze to every second tank. Folks venturing out on any extended road trip should take the time to check local weather conditions and road reports prior to leaving and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to arrive. Updated road reports are available through the Alberta Motor Association by calling one toll free number: 1-877-AMA-HWYS (1-877-262-4997). Please slow down and drive according to the conditions. The life you save could very well be your own.

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