ACT Policing has urged drivers to think ‘safety’ before heading to local mountains to see the snow this winter.
ACT Road Policing’s Detective Acting Superintendent, Donna Hofmeier said each winter police and other service agencies assisted drivers who found themselves lost, bogged or had a collision on slippery mountain roads.
“We regularly respond to incidents where ill-prepared and inexperienced drivers get into trouble in the mountains,” Ms Hofmeier said.
“Drivers are reminded that these are relatively remote areas with extended response times for police and other emergency services,” she said.
“We are asking drivers, if you don’t have experience driving in the mountains, please reconsider your trip.”
Ms Hofmeier said all drivers planning a trip to the mountains should use a four-wheel-drive when possible; check for road closures before setting off; take appropriate clothing and supplies; be patient; avoid travelling at night; tell another person about their plans; and seek advice from someone more experienced with the conditions.
She said when driving in the mountains, people should turn on headlights to increase visibility in foggy conditions; ensure windscreen wipers were working effectively; reduce speed according to conditions; increase braking distance; apply brakes in a steady and controlled manner; and remember that surface moisture or dew can freeze and become black ice.
