Winter Road Report Goes Online

Winter is on the way and with it comes extreme driving conditions for Nova Scotia motorists.

Gordon Balser, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, is urging Nova Scotians to drive cautiously in the coming months and to take advantage of the department's road report service, available online or by telephone. The report returns to service today.

"Driving can be tricky at this time of the year," said Mr. Balser. "By calling our road report line, motorists can easily access up-to-date information on road conditions."

Motorists are encouraged to call 1-800-307-7669 for the latest weather conditions. In metro Halifax, call 902-424-3933. Provincial road conditions are updated at 7 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. In the event of a storm, the road report is updated and provides fresh details to motorists.

"We're asking Nova Scotians to play it safe this winter. Check the road conditions before you head out on a long journey with our road report," said Mr. Balser.

The road report is compiled by Department of Transportation and Public Works staff from more than 20 locations across the province. This year the information is also available on the department's website at www.gov.ns.ca/tran . Just click on road conditions and weather for the current road report.

"The people at Transportation and Public Works do a terrific job salting, sanding and plowing the roads across this province," said Mr. Balser. "But we need the public to do their part. Don't drive during storms. Always adjust your speed to conditions. Watch for ice and leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you. By making these simple changes we can all have a safe winter."