MINISTER DELIVERS SAFE WINTER DRIVING MESSAGES

Released on November 22, 2002

Driving with caution when near a snowplow and using the Highway Hotline

before traveling will help keep you and your family safe this winter.



Highways and Transportation Minister Mark Wartman today reminded winter

travelers to watch for snowplows and promoted the benefits of using the

Highway Hotline.



"Drivers need to be cautious when traveling behind or approaching

snowplows," Wartman said. "Accidents involving snowplows tend to be rear-

end collisions. When visibility conditions are poor, snowplows will pull

over at regular intervals to allow travelers to pass safely, so it is best

to wait rather than risk your safety."



Between 1999 and winter 2002, there were 12 accidents involving snowplows

on Saskatchewan highways. There were no fatalities and five personal

injuries.



Minister Wartman also reminds travelers to use the Highway Hotline before

leaving home.



"With this state-of-the-art information service available, highway users

can make informed decisions on travel," Wartman said. "This can contribute

to safer travel and reduced accident and injury rates."



During severe weather, the Highway Hotline can handle up to 10,000

telephone inquiries daily and even more hits on the Internet site. During

a typical winter season, the Highway Hotline receives 200,000 telephone

inquiries and as many hits on the Internet site.



The toll-free service for the Highway Hotline gives all Saskatchewan

residents free access to the information. Conditions are updated at 8:00

am, 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, or whenever there are known changes that affect

driving conditions.



When calling the Highway Hotline, people should know the highway number

they want details about.



Highway Hotline Phone Numbers:



Regina City and surrounding area: (306) 787-7623

Saskatoon City and surrounding area: (306) 933-8333

The toll-free phone number for all other areas of the province:

1-888-335-7623



To access the Highway Hotline on the Internet or for more information about

other Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation activities, visit the

website at: www.highways.gov.sk.ca



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For more information, contact:



Pamela Bishop

Highways and Transportation

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-4804