B.C. Forest Safety Council
Hunting season is already underway and it is a good time for anyone who is going to be out in the woods this season to consider personal safety and the safety of others out on resource roads.
Forestry and other resource workers will tell you that one of the greatest risks they face is on the roads, getting to and from their worksites.
Here are some safe travel tips for members of the public who do not use resource roads regularly:
1. What to expect and rules of the road
Resource roads are dirt or gravel and may be one or two lanes wide. Expect to see logging, mining and other trucks. A loaded log truck can weigh 10 times more than a regular pick-up truck, has limited maneuverability, and can take up to 300 feet to stop. ‘Down’ or ‘Loaded’ traffic has the right of way. It is good practice to yield to all industrial vehicles. Pull into a designated pullout when possible or as far over to the right, STOP, and give them enough space to pass.
2. Communication
Two-way radios are recommended for safe travel on resource roads. If you do not own a radio, one can be rented at radio communication shops in many small and large centers. Designated radio channels are posted at the beginning of all resource roads. Note that in 2016 resource road radio channels throughout B.C. changed to RR channels. If you have a radio, it may need to be reprogrammed.
3. Speed
Most resource roads have speed limits posted at the beginning of the road (generally 60-80 km/h). Reduce speed depending on the road conditions, traffic flow and road maintenance crews. Always obey the posted rules of the road.
4. Visibility
Wait until you can see clearly; do not drive in the dust of the vehicle ahead, and if pulled over, wait for the dust to settle if a vehicle has passed you in the opposite direction. Travel with your headlights on at all times. If you need to stop or pull over, do so at a designated pullout or a straight stretch of road with good visibility.
5. Passing
Never pass a vehicle unless it pulls over and indicates that it is safe to do so. Even when indicated it is safe, pass cautiously.
6. General safety
As a general rule, as kilometre markings go up, you are travelling further from town. Pack extra emergency supplies; e.g. first aid equipment, water, food, blankets and let someone know where you are going and when you are expected back.
For a poster of the above (letter size and full poster size), please download from the BC Forest Safety Council website: http://www.bcforestsafe.org/node/2837
For more information, contact Pam Agnew, B.JMS, ABC, at toll-free 1-877-741-1060.