Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Tips on How Truck Drivers Can Stay Safe on the Road

In Canada, there are over 160,000 vehicle accidents every year.

If that number alone does not inspire you to take extra caution when driving, allow us to put it this way: that is one accident – whether by collision, rollover, or jackknife – every three minutes. Of those, 30% are environment and weather-related.

So as some parts of the world move into Severe Weather Preparedness Week, we also want to make sure that we’re taking a look at how truck drivers can stay safe on the road. Especially as the weather showdown between winter and spring looms, it’s important to remind ourselves what this week represents: safety in severe weather conditions.

Blizzards, ice storms, flash flooding – all of these present unique risks for those behind the wheel. So, in order to help keep you safe during this potentially hazardous time, we’ve put together a few tips for truck drivers preparing for severe weather.

Severe Weather Conditions You’re Likely to Encounter on the Road With The Ever Changing Weather In Alberta

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As a truck driver, you may face a number of severe weather conditions on the road, especially when you consider the radical climate changes in Alberta.

Blizzards

A blizzard is an intense snowstorm characterized by strong winds and very low temperatures. Visibility can be reduced to near zero at times, making it extremely dangerous to drive in. If caught in a blizzard while driving, pull over and wait for it to pass.

Ice Storms

An ice storm is a winter weather event that occurs when freezing rain coats surfaces with a thick layer of ice. This can make driving extremely hazardous, as icy roads can cause vehicles to lose control or even skid off the road. Always slow down when driving in an ice storm, and be especially careful when turning or braking.

Flash Flooding

Although flash flooding in Alberta is not likely, Flash flooding can occur suddenly and without warning, making it a particularly dangerous weather event to encounter while driving. When flash flooding is occurring, do not attempt to drive through water that is deeper than the height of your vehicle’s headlights – you could easily lose control and be swept away.

Strong Winds

High winds can cause problems for both truck drivers and their vehicles. Not only can high winds make it difficult to drive, but they can also result in downed trees or power lines, as well as flying debris. If you find yourself caught in a windstorm while driving, pull over and wait until the storm has passed.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat can be just as dangerous as extreme cold. It can affect both your truck and your body, leading to problems like dehydration, heatstroke, tire blowouts, and engine strain. When driving in extreme heat, be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks often to avoid overheating. You may also want to consider driving in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.

How To Stay Safe During Severe Weather

1. Check the Weather Forecast Before Heading Out

Many phone apps now offer hour-by-hour weather updates that can give you a good idea of when the worst of the storm will hit. It’s also a good idea to check local news outlets and trucking websites for updates and alerts. If possible, try to plan your route around the worst of the weather.

2. Give Yourself Extra Time

When severe weather is on the horizon, it’s always a good idea to give yourself a few extra hours to get to your destination. This way, if you do run into some bad weather, you won’t be putting yourself under unnecessary pressure to get where you’re going on time.

Of course, we know that isn’t always possible. If you find yourself short on time, make sure to take extra care and drive slower than usual. Your cargo may be time-sensitive, but it’s not always worth putting your life at risk.

3. Drive Defensively

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This one may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember that defensive driving is always the best way to stay safe on the road – especially when severe weather is involved.

In general, you should be leaving plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to react if they make a sudden stop. You should also be aware of what’s going on around you at all times, and be prepared to adjust your speed or route if necessary.

4. Pack an Emergency Kit

The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road during a severe weather event.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit packed and ready to go. This should include things like food, water, blankets, warm clothes, a first-aid kit, and anything else you might need in case you find yourself in a bind.

You should also make sure you have a charged cell phone with you at all times, so you can call for help if necessary.

5. Check Your Truck

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Before you hit the road, it’s always a good idea to give your truck a once-over and make sure everything is in working order.

This includes checking your tires, brakes, lights, and wipers. If you’re driving in bad weather, you don’t want anything to go wrong with your truck – that could lead to a very dangerous situation.

Stay Safe & Prepared at All Times

Truck drivers are on the front lines when it comes to severe weather – they’re the ones who have to keep Canada moving, no matter what Mother Nature throws their way. That’s why it’s so important for truckers to be prepared for whatever conditions they might encounter on the open road. 

If you want to learn more about severe weather preparedness, or if you’re looking to become a professional truck driver, we offer a variety of courses that can help you stay safe and prepared. For more information, visit our website or give us a call today. Stay safe out there!

Truckers Take a Stand Against Vaccine Mandates: A Timeline of the Freedom Convoy

Sparked by a vaccine mandate that requires truckers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to cross the US-Canada border, the “Freedom Convoy” is a movement that has gripped the country and captured the attention of the world.

Here’s a timeline of the key events – from how the demonstration started and how it’s shaped up since.

What Is the Freedom Convoy All About?

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Before we chronicle the key events of the Freedom Convoy, let’s first discuss what it is all about.

The “Freedom Convoy” movement stems from the grievances of protesters regarding Canada’s new mandate implemented by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Truck drivers are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to cross the US-Canada border – a mandate that has sparked outrage among many truckers and their supporters across Canada. Unvaccinated truckers crossing the border need to quarantine once they return home, an inconvenience that could hinder their livelihoods.

This new mandate was put into effect in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but many believe it to be a violation of their liberties and freedoms. And so, the Freedom Convoy protesters are calling for a repeal of the vaccine mandate and have since made strides in rallying support.

A Timeline of Key Events

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Now that we have a better understanding of what the Freedom Convoy is about, let’s take a look at the key events that have transpired since it began.

January 15, 2022:  

The Trucker Vaccine Mandate is put into effect, sparking backlash among the trucking community. 

January 22, 2022: 

The US exemption for truckers crossing the border is revoked, requiring all truckers to be vaccinated.

January 23, 2022: 

The Freedom Convoy was assembled, with participants from various parts of Canada. The protesters started to make their way to Ottawa near Parliament Hill to voice their opposition against the mandate. 

January 28, 2022:  

The first few batches of the convoy arrive in Ottawa and set up camp outside of Parliament Hill. 

Despite taking measures to cushion the impact of the protest, the City of Ottawa and its residents saw a significant disruption in traffic and delays in public transit. 

January 29, 2022: 

Thousands of protesters converged as the main rally took place. An estimate of 18,000 people was in attendance, a combination of truckers and supporters. 

There were no injuries or violence reported, but there were several reports of disorderly conduct. In particular, the desecration of the National War Memorial by some protesters drew ire from many. 

January 30, 2022: 

The demonstration continued, and the city officials were forced to mitigate the impact of the protest. 

Government-run offices in downtown Ottawa were closed, and several main roads were closed down due to the protest. 

An official investigation was also launched as a response to the desecration of the National War Memorial. 

January 31, 2022: 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau refused to meet with the organizers of the protest, but he did make a statement regarding the issue. 

He condemned the protests and reiterated his stance on the vaccine mandate. 

February 2, 2022:  

The organizers of the demonstration issued a statement that they will not be leaving Parliament Hill until their demands are met. 

February 3, 2022: 

The organizers announced that the protest will continue. They also held a press conference to address allegations that the protest was an act of misogyny, racism, and terrorism. 

February 4, 2022:  

A “surge and contain” strategy by the police was implemented with the goal of ending the protest. 

Several people were arrested, and the demonstration was subsequently dispersed. 

The online fundraising platform, GoFundMe also announced the suspension of payments from donors to the organizers of the Freedom Convoy. 

February 6, 2022: 

Ottawa mayor Jim Watson declares a state of emergency in the city. 

This gives him more authority to deal with the situation, including seizing 3,000 liters of fuel from the protesters. 

February 7, 2022: 

This marked the second full week of the protest. 

The protesters remained undeterred despite the increased fines and threats of arrests. 

February 10, 2022:

Prime Minister Trudeau finally addresses the opposition organizers directly at an online meeting. 

February 13, 2022: 

The third week of the protest saw a counterprotest from the residents of Ottawa. 

February 14: 

The Federal government declares a National Emergency. 

A first in the history of the country, the Emergencies Act was invoked to deal with the situation. 

This gives the government a sweeping power and authority in stopping the protests.

Is An Amicable End In Sight?

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Despite the declaration of a national emergency, the protesters continue to hold their ground. 

The organizers of the protest have stated that they will not stop until the vaccine mandate is lifted and that they would remain in Ottawa “for as long as long as it takes for governments across Canada to cease all mandates” linked with COVID-19. 

Meanwhile, Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson claimed that he and organizers had struck an agreement for them to stay out of residential sections of the city and limit their protests to the streets right in front of Canada’s national parliament.

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