Safety first during harvest

With harvest underway, the Government of Saskatchewan is reminding farmers and motorists to keep safety as a top priority during this busy period.

“Nice weather makes for a busy time on the farm in Saskatchewan,” Minister of Highways and Infrastructure Lori Carr said. “By planning ahead and taking the appropriate steps, we can help limit the safety risks connected to harvest.”

To help improve safety:

-take extra precautions when passing slow-moving farm equipment;

-be respectful of other drivers, as slow-moving vehicles can cause frustration;

-ensure lights are working and adjusted before moving farm equipment on public highways;

-know all height, length and weight restrictions on farm vehicles and when permits may be required; and -regularly inspect and maintain equipment. Producers who operate heavy trucks must comply with many of the same rules and regulations as commercial vehicle operators. Vehicles may be inspected by Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers, which may take up to an hour.

“While we want to keep people moving during the busy harvest, we also must ensure all vehicles are in safe operating order,” Carr said.

Drivers need to obey signs, stay alert and slow to 60 km/hr through the work zone. There may be cases in work zones where workers are not present that still require you to slow down. A sharp pavement drop or loose stones during a seal coat are examples of hazards that warrant a slower posted speed. A weekly highway construction update is also published on www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/transportation/highwa y-construction-projects/ weekly-highway-construct io nup date to provide the travelling public with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel. You can also report a highway work zone signing problem by calling 306-244-5535.

If you’re planning to travel, check the Highway Hotline at www.saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline, which provides up-to-date information on construction, emergency road closures, the status of ferries, barges and other road activities. Information is also available by calling 511. The Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $8.4 billion in highways and infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 13,000 kilometres of Saskatchewan highways.