Posted on 01/13/2011, 12:19 pm, by mySteinbach

Each winter in Manitoba poor weather creates dangerous conditions where the RCMP Detachment Commanders may be required to close the Highway to public access.

The RCMP works closely with Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation (MIT) to ensure all road closures are conveyed to maintenance staff, the Media and the general public through the MIT Information Centre.

Road closure assessment includes whether poor visibility exists, whether surface is generally slippery, the number of collisions occurring or likely to occur given the conditions, and other factors that may affect travel safety.

We ask the public’s cooperation to be informed on the weather and road conditions before leaving home. They must respect all Road Closures even if barricades are not present. It is illegal to travel on a highway which has been closed. They should understand that if they venture onto a roadway which is closed and have trouble, that help from emergencies services will be delayed.

During winter driving conditions, motorists are asked to exercise caution and be sure to drive  according to road conditions. A few extra minutes of travel time can mean the difference between a safe arrival,or a slip into the ditch, or even a fatal collision.

Cst. Miles Hiebert
RCMP Media Relations
Tel:(204)983-8497