Police are urging Victorians, like those in Melbourne’s north that are planning to travel to alpine areas this winter to plan ahead to stay safe.
This year’s snow season is expected to be the busiest in two years, after travelling to the snow was restricted the previous two winters due to the pandemic.
With heavy snowfall prompting alpine resorts to open a week earlier than the official season opening this weekend, snow-goers are being told to take all safety precautions
Those travelling on unfamiliar alpine roads are encouraged to drive with care and caution, with dangerous and slippery conditions predicted.
Some roads are expected to be closed due to snow fall, so people are advised to check the VicRoads’ website or phone 13 11 70, resort websites and social media channels before leaving home.
Police are also reminding people to carry appropriate snow chains and ensure they can be fitted to their vehicles. The chains must be fitted when directed to do so.
You can be fined and redirected away from the mountain for failing to carry and fit snow chains as directed.
Other alpine road safety tips include:
• Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel;
• Ensure your car’s radiator is filled with anti-freeze and if diesel use alpine mix;
• Drive cautiously with gradual pressure on the accelerator to avoid wheel spin;
• Brake gently and avoid unnecessary gear changes;
• Always follow directions by resort staff, police and road signs.
Bright senior sergeant Doug Incoll said: “Police are looking forward to seeing Victorians once again enjoying our beautiful alpine region. It is shaping up to be the best winter for many years and it is the first time since 2000 that resorts have opened early due to the amount of snow.”
“However, we are pleading with people to ensure their safety checklist is fully ticked off before heading up to the mountains, particularly when it comes to road safety. One small oversight such as inappropriate wheel chains could easily lead to tragedy.”
