Prince George, B.C. – Many British Columbia motorists and families like to take advantage of the four-day break during the Easter long weekend to do some travelling, but drivers are reminded that highways can be busy and  road conditions may remain winter-like and dangerous in some parts of the province.

Police forces across B.C. offer some tips for a safe road trip:

• Be prepared: Weather conditions can change suddenly at this time of year, especially when travelling over long distances. Check the road and weather conditions for your entire trip at drivebc.ca
• Check your vehicle: Remember to check the engine oil, washer fluid and lights. Take a look at your vehicle’s tires, including the spare, to make sure they are in good condition and properly inflated. Keep winter tires on vehicles until April 30, if driving mountain passes.
• Stay alert: Be realistic about travel times and plan rest stops at least every two hours to avoid becoming fatigued while driving.
• Put phones away: Turn off cell phones or store them out of reach to avoid the temptation.
• Be sober: The risk of being in a fatal crash is, on average, seven times greater at a blood alcohol content between .05 and .08, compared with driving sober. Let someone else drive or make alternate arrangements to avoid drinking and driving.
• Obey the limit: Speed is B.C.’s number one road safety problem, contributing to about 35% of all fatal crashes. Vehicles driven at greater than 40 km/hr over the posted speed limit are immediately impounded in B.C. Their drivers are fined and three penalty points are added to their licence.

• Share the road: Warmer weather encourages more motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists to hit the road. Give other road users the time and space to reach their destinations safely.

Every year over the Easter long weekend an average of three people are killed and 670 are injured in 2,300 crashes across the province.