As crews worked through the long weekend to restore services to the Fox Creek townsite, Fox Creek RCMP responded to reports that several motorists were passing workers at high speeds. Given the crew’s close proximity to the highway, limited visibility in the area due to smoke, and the reduced speed limit of 80 km/h, RCMP Traffic and Special Tactical Operations Units were deployed to aid in traffic enforcement on Highway 43 in the Fox Creek area.

Between midnight and 8:00 a.m. this morning alone, a total of 50 vehicles were stopped. All digital and posted signage indicating the reduced speed limit has been in place since the reopening Highway 43 on May 21st.  

Disregard for posted speed limits and other safety signage, especially in communities affected by the wildfires, puts the lives of working crews and emergency responders at an unnecessary risk. The Alberta RCMP will continue to provide enhanced support for these communities to ensure the people working hard to re-establish services in these areas can do their jobs safely.

RCMP set up check stops in an 80 km/hr zone where there were active crews roadside.

  • On May 21, 2023, numerous vehicles were stopped at speeds ranging approximately 115km/hr to 140km/hr
  • On May 22, 2023, numerous vehicles were stopped at speeds ranging approximately 115km/hr to 130km/hr
  • On May 23, 2023, well over 50 vehicles were stopped at speeds ranging approximately 105km/hr to 130km/hr

Several violation tickets were issued, and traffic enforcement efforts will continue.

Fox Creek RCMP is informing motorists that driving behaviours that endangers the lives of anyone, including support workers and emergency crews will not be tolerated.

 

Anyone with information in relation traffic offences in their area are asked to please contact their local RCMP or your local police.  If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.