OPP report more than 400 crashes on provincial roads

Police are reminding drivers to slow down after more than 400 crashes were reported on Ontario roads over the past 24-hours.

Commuters woke up to slick conditions and some snow covered roads after the first big snowfall of the season.

OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt says the high number of accidents is roughly double what they would typically see on a Monday morning.

The City of Hamilton says snow plows will focus on clearing first and second priority roads.

Good morning, #HamOnt! Our Winter crews are focused on Priority 1/2 roads, City-owned sidewalks & bus stops now; Priority 3 roads to follow.

— City of Hamilton (@cityofhamilton) December 12, 2016

First priority roads include main routes and escarpment crossings and second priority will be collector roads. Residential streets are the last priority.

Before a snowstorm, city crews apply an anti-icing salt brine solution that helps keep snow and ice from bonding to the roads. After the snow falls, they apply salt or salt-sand mixtures to the roads and begin plowing.

The city offered these tips for winter driving:

• If you must drive, give yourself more time to reach your destination.
• Drive according to weather and road conditions.
• Park your vehicle off the street where possible.
• Do not park in a spot that has a Snow Route, No Stopping or No Parking sign.
• Stay back at least 25 metres from snow plows, sanders and other equipment so the operator can see you.
• Stay behind snow plows. Passing a plow is dangerous.