With the State’s snow season officially kicking off next week, Victoria Police is urging people to plan ahead after thousands of visitors had their trip to the slopes disrupted last year due to inadequate planning.
Eastern Region Superintendent, Shane Cashman said that while the overwhelming majority of visitors were well prepared for the conditions last year, around 5,700 vehicles were turned around at their destination for not carrying appropriate wheel chains to drive in the snow.
“Victoria Police and authorised officers will again be conducting random vehicle checks, both at alpine resorts and the roads leading to resorts, this year to ensure wheel chain compliance,” Supt Cashman said.
“Wheel chains are a crucial piece of equipment when driving in alpine conditions, preserving the stability and traction of the vehicle’s wheels on roads affected by snow or ice,” he said.
“It is a legal requirement to carry suitable wheel chains at all times during the snow season and they must be fitted when directed to do so.
“Failing to carry wheel chains may result in a $370 fine, while failing to fit wheel chains when directed incurs a $970 fine.”
Supt Cashman said that in addition to a heavy police presence across key roads leading to resorts, local police would also maintain a seven-day-a-week presence at Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, and Falls Creek for the duration of the season.
He said the officers had undertaken specific training in alpine areas in the lead up to snow season, to ensure they were well placed to maintain public order on the slopes, respond to incidents, and conduct search and rescue missions.
“Driving on roads covered with snow or ice without appropriate chains is a recipe for disaster that could quite easily end in lethal consequences,” Supt Cashman said.
“We have seen far too much trauma on Victorian roads this year and we implore anyone driving to the snow this season to be well prepared, drive cautiously, and take care of themselves, their family, and their mates.”
