Prince George, B.C. – The August long weekend is just a day away and police, ICBC and the provincial government is reminding drivers to remain alert while out on the road.

“Warm summer weather and long drives can be a dangerous combination that can cause fatigue,” says ICBC. “Fatigue slows a driver’s reaction time, decreases awareness and impairs judgement. Even a slight decrease in reaction time can greatly increase your risk of crashing, especially when travelling at highway speeds.”

With that in mind, ICBC has offered the following tips to those headed out on a road trip this weekend.

• Plan your journey: Get a good sleep the night before you leave and now the route you’re going to take so you can plan rest points along the way. Take a break every two hours and avoid driving at night when you’d normally be asleep.
• Take a break: Pull over as soon as your feel drowsy. Turning up the radio won’t help as the only cure for drowsiness is sleep. It’s better to arrive late than not at all.
• Know the signs: Pay attention to warning signs. Some examples include not noticing a vehicle until it suddenly passes you, you’re yawning or daydreaming or you find yourself wandering into the next lane.

What’s more, Mounties will be out in full force policing the province’s highways.

“Law enforcement will be keeping watch of B.C. roadways this long weekend to ensure drivers are abiding by the law and making smart choices with their travel plans,” says Mike Morris, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “We want everyone to arrive at their destination safety so that means putting your phone away, being alert and paying attention to the road.”

According to ICBC 20 people are injured in 130 crashes in northern B.C. on average every B.C. Day long weekend.