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Watch driving conditions carefully: RCMP

With the recent snow on the roadways throughout Haida Gwaii, and more snow in the forecast, the RCMP are reminding drivers that roads and driving conditions can turn from safe to hazardous in a matter of moments.It is crucial that drivers realize they can't drive the same way on wet or snow-covered roads as they do on dry surfaces, said Sgt. Grant MacDonald of the Masset RCMP detachment. They must reduce speed and allow more room between them and the vehicle ahead. More time is needed to react or stop for an emergency situation.Police are also reminding drivers to be realistic about travel times, especially in bad weather, not to use cruise control in wet or slippery conditions, and not to slam on the brakes if control is lost in snow or ice conditions. Instead, they should ease off the accelerator, then gently apply brake pressure and steer in the direction they want to go.Sgt. MacDonald also recommends drivers make sure their tires have good tread and are inflated, that they avoid passing other vehicles in bad weather, and that they keep emergency winter supplies in their vehicle.