Saskatchewan motorists will now be able to check the Highway Hotline through an app on their smartphones.
Saskatchewan's Highway Hotline has launched a new version of their app with cleaner graphics and added functions such as an expanded route-planning feature that includes road conditions.
"As Saskatchewan's trusted advocate on road user safety, we encourage drivers to check the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline for updates on road conditions," said CAA Saskatchewan Director of Corporate Communications Christine Niemczyk. "We include the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline in our safety messaging because we know the weather in our province can change quickly. It's important to adapt our driving behaviour to the current weather and road conditions, and to rely on resources such as the Saskatchewan Highway Hotline to help keep all road users safe."
The Highway Hotline began nearly 50 years ago as a phone-based service that provided information about road conditions. Today, the hotline receives roughly 6.5 million online visits annually. Last winter, which was impacted by several intense storms, the hotline set a record, with nearly 13 million hits.
It has evolved into a phone and web-based service that shares information about highway conditions, road closures, construction zones, ferries and border crossings. Maps and information are updated at least three times per day. During winter storms, updates are made the moment they're received.
Highway Hotline information is also available over the phone at 1-888-335-7623 or by calling 511.
The hotline features a network of more than 40 cameras on Saskatchewan highways and airports. The cameras provide real-time, current images of weather and highway conditions, which can help travelers make informed decisions about their safety.
Users can download the free mobile app for their smartphones from Google Play and the Apple Store.