In the initial stages the Fort Chipewyan winter road had a very low weight limit, and warmer temperatures meant that crews had to work at night instead of working during the day. The weight limit for this route now is set at 10,000 kilograms according to a recent press release from RMWB. The press release also includes recommendations that include using vehicles which are 4X4 and which have high clearance. According to the municipality they are asking that drivers “obey all posted signage and watch for workers on the road.” There are still rough sections in the delta area, and only one truck should be on the road at a time. Failing to pay attention to the surroundings and take into account the weather conditions could be dangerous or even deadly when traveling on the winter road.
Drivers who use the Fort Chipewyan winter road need to understand that the conditions may require an adjustment in speed, and they need to pay close attention to any signs as they are traveling on the road. It is advisable to have an emergency preparedness kit and to be completely aware of the hazards that could be encountered when using the winter road. In severe weather conditions being stranded could be disastrous, and if you are not fully prepared it could also be fatal. Remember that when you are on the winter road to Fort Chipewyan the usual services and amenities like coverage for cell phones, gas stations, and even regular road patrols are not available.
