Drivers now have a new tool to help them navigate snow-covered roads this winter.
Transportation Minister and Elgin-Middlesex-London MPP Jeff Yurek announced Friday a new "Track My Plow" feature on the Ontario 511 website, that allows users to see in real time where snowplows and salt trucks are on provincial highways.
“Keeping Ontario’s highways as safe as possible during winter weather conditions is a top priority for our government,” said Yurek in a statement. “Winter is coming, snow has already fallen in many parts of the province. Before heading out, check Ontario 511 for local highway information and to track snowplows in your area.”
Before the end of the year, the website will also be updated to include Waze, an app that allows drivers to publicly report collisions, traffic jams, and weather-related hazards.
Speaking at the MTO Patrol Yard at 6355 Westminster Dr. in London, Yurek also touted the province's high standards for winter maintenance.
"You should also find comfort in knowing Ontario has some of the highest winter maintenance standards in North America. This season we are starting to implement new maintenance contracts that will improve highway maintenance services across the province," said Yurek. "These new contracts will include specifying the amount of winter equipment on the routes, explicit patrolling requirements, the use of anti-icing liquids, and newer winter equipment that will be more visible."
Last winter, over nine million litres of anti-icing liquid was poured on provincial highways to help prevent ice and snowpack from forming on the road.
Interim OPP Commissioner Brad Blair was on hand for the announcement Friday and stressed that keeping roadways safe during the winter months is a shared responsibility.
“Drivers need to take their time and drive defensively when we have poor road conditions to reduce the risk of being in a collision,” said Blair. “We are all partners in keeping our roads safe for everyone.”
It is recommended drivers get ready for the snowy weather ahead by installing winter tires on their vehicle and assembling a winter survival kit with items such as a flashlight, blanket and shovel.
Ontario 511 can be accessed on Twitter @511Ontario, by dialling 5-1-1 on the phone, or online at ontario.ca/511.