Calgary was blanketed with snow for the first time in 2013 and high winds and snow are making for very dangerous conditions on city roads and area highways.

About 10 centimetres fell in and around Calgary overnight. Forecasts predicted about two to three centimetres.

Police say that between 7 p.m. on Wednesday and 9 a.m. on Thursday, they've had to deal with five injury and 40 non-injury crashes reported to the CPS due to conditions.

They’re hoping drivers take their advice and take it easy during the morning’s commute.

City crews have been out in full force, beginning last night to lay down a mixture to melt the snow and prevent ice from building up on the roads and creating problems.

The city says that winter conditions remain on the roads and conditions vary throughout different communities.

Plows are currently working on the priority one routes.

Drivers should take extra time before their commute.

Police also remind drivers to be sure that their vehicles are clear of ice and snow before they set off - leaving that on your vehicle poses a danger to other drivers and could land you with a $115 ticket.

They have also provided the following tips:

When driving

  • Drive according to the road conditions. Just because the speed is posted at 100 km per hour does not mean you have to go that fast.
  • Always leave a safe gap between you and other vehicles. That way you will have plenty of time to react should anything happen…the ‘two second’ rule is always a good idea.
  • Pay particular attention at intersections. Snow often melts under the exhausts of vehicles and then re-freezes making it icy and difficult to stop.
  • Take extra care when travelling over bridges where black ice can form.
  • Avoid any sudden manoeuvres such as braking, accelerating or sharp turns.
  • If the conditions are too treacherous, turn back or find safety quickly.

General

  • Make sure your vehicle is well maintained. Top up your washer fluid and make sure your wiper blades are in good working order.
  • Winter tires are recommended, but remember, they are not miracle workers – you still need to drive carefully and follow the advice already provided.
  • Regardless of what tires you have, make sure they are in good condition.
  • Conditions can change in a heartbeat, so make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter and you have an emergency and First Aid kit with you at all times (see www.ama.ab.cafor more details).
  • If you are driving a truck, make sure there is plenty of weight in the back so you maintain traction with the road.
  • If you are going on a long or unplanned journey, tell someone where you are going and when you plan to get there.

So far, there has been no snow event declared, so no parking ban is in effect.

The bulk of the snow has passed and conditions are likely to improve.