Drivers reminded about road safety heading into Thanksgiving weekend

MERRITT – With it being the Thanksgiving long weekend, residents are being reminded to drive safe while travelling to visit loved ones.

Throughout the province, drivers are being warned for more traffic which means potentially longer wait times.

“Drivers can expect delays on Coquihalla Highway 5, as portions of the highway are still one lane in each direction due to damage from last November’s floods and ongoing reconstruction work,” said the Government of BC in a news release. “The heaviest traffic volumes on the Coquihalla are anticipated to be northbound Friday, October 7, from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and southbound Monday, October 10, from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m..”

Officials have released some safety tips for this weekend which include:

• Plan accordingly for busier roads
• Preparing your vehicle for the drive
  • Full tank of gas/charged battery
  • Engine oil
  • Washer fluid
  • Lights
  • Tires
• Pack food/water
• Watch for motorcyclists
• No going on the phone while driving
• Making sure everyone is wearing a seatbelt
• Never be under the influence and drive
• Plan breaks at rest areas.

Check DriveBC for the best updates on the roads before you travel.