HIGHWAY HOTLINE UP AND RUNNING

The Highway Hotline is up and running early this year following heavy snowfall that resulted in dangerous driving conditions in some parts of Saskatchewan over the weekend.

Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation Minister Maynard Sonntag urges motorists to check road conditions on the web site or phone the Highway Hotline before traveling on Saskatchewan's highways this winter.

"The road information system we have developed provides important, up-to-date information on highway conditions to the traveling public, business, industry and the rural sector," Sonntag said. "This is a valuable asset for highway safety."

Highway road condition information is most often accessed from the department's web site. The web site offers several options for users, including an interactive road conditions map, entering a specific highway number or scrolling down the full list of highways across the province.

The Highway Hotline provides recorded information on a 24-hour basis. Information is updated at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily during the winter or when conditions change during severe weather. Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation staff from across the province provide information to 15 offices which then update the central information system. The toll-free service for the Highway Hotline gives all Saskatchewan residents free access to the information.

When calling the Highway Hotline people should know the highway number they want details about. Callers can select information on current highway conditions, ferry crossing information, weight restrictions and out-of-province road information numbers.

"I would remind motorists to be alert for changing highway conditions. Weather during a typical Saskatchewan winter can and does change in a matter of minutes," Sonntag said.

Highway Hotline

Web site: www.highways.gov.sk.ca (click on road conditions)

Regina City and surrounding area: (306) 787-7623
Saskatoon City and surrounding area: (306) 933-8333
Saskatchewan toll-free: 1-888-335-7623
SaskTel Cellular Network: *ROAD

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For More Information, Contact:

Kirsten Leatherdale Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306) 787-8484