Snow storm keeping Emergency Services busy

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

At approximately 7:00 pm last night, October 22, Pincher Creek Emergency Services responded to a motor vehicle rollover on Highway 3 at the coulees east of Cowley.  Cowley Fire responded to the accident, as did an ambulance from Pincher Creek.  There was one occupant, who was transported to Pincher Creek Hospital with minor injuries.

At approximately 8:30 pm Pincher Creek Emergency Services and Lundbreck Fire both responded to an accident on Highway 3 at the intersection with Highway 22.  A single vehicle knocked over a light stand in that incident.  When emergency crews arrived on scene the occupant of the vehicle was outside and cold, and he was transported to Pincher Creek Hospital with undetermined injuries.  Emergency Services also took his dog to the Pincher Creek Vet Clinic with a possible broken leg.

At approximately the same time as the above incident two semi trucks spun out and were partially blocking traffic on the hill at the southern end of Highway 22, just north of where it joins with Highway 3.  Lundbreck Fire stayed on scene until after midnight directing traffic until tow trucks could clear the trucks from the roadway.

Volker Stevin was reportedly overwhelmed by calls for service last night.

Multiple vehicles spinning out created a blockage of Highway 3 just west of Brocket this morning.

RCMP reports of poor road conditions are coming in from all over Alberta.

Raymond RCMP are advising motorists that the highways south of Lethbridge are snow covered and icy with drifting snow and in generally poor winter driving conditions. Motorists are urged to avoid the travelling unless necessary.  Most of the primary highways are covered in ice and down to one lane.

Grande Prairie RCMP are advising that all highways heading into the city are in poor driving conditions due to the snow and ice.

Drive safely:


Red Deer RCMP offer the following seasonal tips to drivers:

• Drive according to road and weather conditions, allowing sufficient space for safe stopping;
• Plan your trip according to road and weather conditions: leave extra time, if needed;
• Remove all snow from your vehicle, ensuring you can see 360 deg. around your vehicle;
• Ensure all headlights and taillights are working properly;
• Use headlights, even during daylight hours, to increase visibility;
• If needed, add weight to the trunk or box of vehicle: use sand bags;
• Check tires for wear and replace with either snow or good all season tires.

RCMP see a dramatic increase in motor vehicle collisions when road and weather conditions deteriorate.  By implementing some basic vehicle maintenance and traffic safety awareness, it is hoped that collisions will be avoided and reduced within the City of Red Deer this winter.

When approaching the scene of a collision, proceed with extreme caution.  SLOW DOWN when passing Emergency Services Personnel working on the road and give them room to work.  Everybody deserves to return home safely.