With the warm spring air starting to grace the town of Kitimat, the Ministry of Transportation is reminding drivers to not change their winter tires until the end of April.
As road conditions can quickly change in the interior and northern parts of the province, two years ago, regulations were extended from March 31 to April 30 on select highways.
Though Kitimat’s highway 37 is not part of that extension and only requires winter tires until March 31st, the town is known for its ever-changing weather conditions with snowfall still possible.
Winter tires must remain on your vehicle for many roads in the province, especially around the northern region, until April 30th. Until then, vehicles should be equipped with the mountain/snowflake or mud and snow (M + S) symbol when commuting.
READ MORE: Winter tires, chains now mandatory along most B.C. highways
Tires also need to be in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimetres.
According to the Motor Vehicle Act, people driving passenger vehicles not equipped with winter tires when/where required can receive a fine of $121.
Also, as stated by the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations, when commercial vehicles are not carrying chains when/where required, the person driving can receive a fine of $196.
Though maintenance crews strive to keep affected routes safe, people must use caution and slow down when encountering bad weather and/or limited visibility.
In some areas, heavy snowfall or rapidly warming temperatures can increase the risk of avalanches. Potentially causing highway closures until ministry avalanche experts can assure the conditions are safe to drive through. Hence why it’s important to always comply with all traffic personnel.
READ MORE: Winter tire regulations extended to April 30 on some B.C. roads