B.C. Highway Patrol delivers safety message ahead of long weekend

KAMLOOPS — Roads are expected to be busier than usual during the upcoming August long weekend. With that in mind, B.C. Highway Patrol is asking all drivers to be extra careful. According to Cst. Mike Moore, the increase in traffic volume can lead to an increase in high risk driving behaviors.

“Driving is a very complex, divided-attention task and road safety all starts with you, the driver. We would ask that motorists drive defensively, obey the speed limits, wear their seatbelts — that’s properly across the chest, not under the arm — drive sober and drive distraction free,” he said.

Cst. Moore also explained that with a lot of residents going toward the Interior for recreational travel, one highway to pay attention to is the Coquihalla. He said drivers can and should plan ahead before their trip.

“Checking sites like Drive B.C., to check their route, plotting their route on their GPS beforehand and preparing their vehicle for any unforseen emergencies with an emergency kit. Make sure the vehicle is in good working condition,” he advised.

B.C. Highway Patrol is expected to be conducting enhanced enforcement along highways across the province during the weekend.