The snow is creeping lower down the mountains, and while we haven’t seen much of the white stuff in the Jasper townsite yet, it’s time to prepare for winter driving.

Road conditions can change at any second, and Parks Canada encourages drivers to be prepared for any conditions that could arise. 

The first step in a safe ride is planning a route with the help of current road conditions. There are a number of reputable sites that offer weather and road conditions, but Parks’ Marion Lee, operations manager for the Highway Services Centre, suggests www.ama.ab.ca

When leaving on a trip it’s important to pack what you will need, and ensure your gas tank and windshield fluid are topped up. Packing a safety kit in your vehicle is an important step. Include a cell phone, water, energy bars, candles, extra clothing and blankets. 

In winter, allow two times the normal distance between yourself and any other vehicles on slippery or wet roads. Reduce speed and keep in mind that speed limits are set for ideal conditions. Plan extra time to get to your destination.

If you encounter a snowplow or sand and salt trucks, use extreme caution and only pass on the left. Keep in mind that passing a road maintenance vehicle leaves you at the mercy of winter driving conditions. When driving at night, low beams can sometimes be more effective than high beams, especially when there is snow or fog. 

In colder conditions your tires may lose pressure quickly. Be sure to check tire pressure often. 

Four-wheel drive vehicles do not necessarily mean better traction on corners or braking. Using cruise-control or overdrive can be dangerous, and could result in an unexpected gear change that can cause a loss of traction. Black ice can be hidden in shaded areas on bridge decks and at intersections. 

It is important to have proper winter tires to travel on Highway 93. Signs at either end of the highway warn that drivers can and will be fined if spotted without winter tires. Information on how to properly pick out a set of tires can be found at www.betiresmart.ca

Keep in mind that Highway 93 has little traffic in the winter, and Parks Canada no longer patrols at night. Road conditions and weather can change suddenly, and drivers are advised to travel only when comfortable with conditions.