With winter conditions settling in across the Prairies, both Saskatchewan and Alberta RCMP are urging drivers to take extra precautions before hitting the road. From emergency kits to what to do if you become stranded, police say preparation can make the difference between inconvenience and danger.
Stay with your vehicle if you get stranded
Saskatchewan RCMP stress that if your vehicle becomes stuck or immobilized in winter weather, do not abandon it. Instead, stay inside, wait for help, and use the vehicle as temporary shelter.
Officers say you should run your vehicle occasionally to stay warm, but conserve fuel by cycling the engine on and off rather than keeping it running constantly. Before doing so, always check that the tailpipe is not clogged with snow, which can cause deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
Stock an emergency winter kit
Both Saskatchewan and Alberta RCMP emphasize carrying a fully stocked emergency kit. Saskatchewan RCMP recommend items such as extra warm clothing, non‑perishable food, water, a shovel, candles, booster cables, and traction materials like sand or cat litter.
Also that drivers should keep a fully charged cellphone, blankets, a flashlight, and other essentials in the vehicle at all times—especially during periods of blowing snow, freezing rain, or extreme cold.
Prepare your vehicle before travelling
RCMP remind drivers to clear all snow from their vehicles, clean headlights and taillights, install winter tires, and ensure wipers, antifreeze, and fluids are ready for the season. They also recommend keeping the gas tank more than half full.
In dealing with frequent blowing-snow advisories, motorists should check weather and road conditions before driving, keep vehicle lights on, and ensure tires are properly inflated — especially during major temperature swings. Alberta 511 and the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline are highly recommended to keep track of conditions.
Drive to conditions — Not the speed limit
Both provinces are seeing increased reports of drivers going too fast for icy, snow‑covered roads. RCMP say drivers should slow down, increase following distances, and avoid sudden braking or lane changes.
On Dec. 17 from midnight to 2:00 p.m. Saskatchewan RCMP received 29 reports of weather-related calls for service. This includes collisions, ditched vehicles, and traffic hazards, such as vehicles pulled over on the side of the road due to reduced weather and road conditions.
In Alberta, RCMP warn that freezing rain and heavy snow can reduce visibility “in minutes,” urging drivers to adjust immediately when conditions change. They reported on Dec. 17 that southern parts of the QE II were closed preventing access northbound at Calgary and southbound at Red Deer, while emergency responders are assisting stranded motorist due to multiple collisions in the Didsbury and Airdrie areas.
Plan ahead and avoid risky travel
Saskatchewan RCMP encourage motorists to check highway updates before travelling and delay trips when poor conditions are forecast.
Alberta RCMP advise drivers to postpone non-essential trips when blowing snow or freezing rain advisories are in effect. If you do travel, ensure your headlights are on, leave extra space, and stay alert.
What to do when fatigue sets in
RCMP also highlight winter driving fatigue as a real hazard. They advise planning safe spots to stop, taking breaks every couple of hours, and keeping the vehicle cabin at a moderate temperature to avoid drowsiness.
Bottom line
Both Saskatchewan and Alberta RCMP agree: the key to safe winter travel is preparation, caution, and knowing what to do if something goes wrong. Stay with your vehicle if stranded, conserve fuel, keep your tailpipe clear, and make sure both you and your vehicle are winter‑ready before leaving home.
