RCMP – Roadside Safety

On behalf of our partners at the RCMP, we are sharing the following.

Chestermere, Alta. – Chestermere RCMP is reminding all drivers to take extra precautions when leaving their vehicles on highways or roadways, whether to assist another motorist or handle vehicle emergencies. Safety is paramount, and following best practices can prevent serious injury or worse.

The Chestermere RCMP offers the following safety tips for motorists who may need to stop along a highway or roadway unexpectedly.

Bring a roadside safety kit in your car that includes:

• High-visibility vest or jacket
• Warning triangles or flares
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Snow shovel, ice scraper, or sand in winter conditions
• First aid kit

Position your vehicle safely

• Pull over as far off the road as possible, ideally on the shoulder or a breakdown lane.
• Turn on your hazard lights immediately.
• In snowy, foggy, or low-visibility conditions, increase the distance between your vehicle and traffic if possible.

Increase visibility

• Place warning triangles or flares behind your vehicle to alert approaching drivers.
• Wear a high-visibility vest if you need to exit the vehicle.
• At night, use a flashlight or reflective materials to draw attention to your position.

Stay alert in severe weather

• Keep a safe distance from traffic when outside your vehicle.
• Avoid standing directly behind or in front of your vehicle.
• If assisting another motorist, plan your movements carefully and communicate clearly with them.
• Visibility may be reduced during snow, fog, or heavy rain so always maintain situational awareness.
• Increase the number of warning devices (e.g., multiple flares, warning triangles).
• If conditions are too dangerous, always remain inside your vehicle until emergency services arrive.

The Chestermere RCMP reminds residents that if you witness a crime in progress or see suspicious activity, call 9-1-1 immediately. For non-emergencies, you can:

• Call 310-RCMP (7267)
• To report online, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. Alternatively, visit rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ab and select Online Crime Reporting under quick links.

For more safety tips, visit us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.