Vella Radio’s Guide for Safe Travel on Forest Service Roads

By driving responsibly and watching out for each other, we can all avoid accidents and make every mile a safe one.

B.C. Forest Service Road Radio Protocol

Drivers using a radio should call the following, unless directed otherwise by a sign posted on the road:

  • when: starting, stopping, entering or leaving a road
  • at “must call” signs
  • every 2 km
  • “up” with increase or “down” with decrease in km signs
  • in order of road name, km, up/down, number of vehicles (if convoy calling), vehicle type (optional)
  • No call if part of the convoy is called by a lead vehicle within 1 km.

Guide for Safe Travel on Forest Service Roads

Never pass any vehicle without notifying them on the radio and receiving the “OK”.

  • Avoid distractions while monitoring the road channel.
  • Stay on designated road channels at all times while traveling.
  • Resource road channels are for traffic management purposes only.
  • When switching channels when entering a road system, request oncoming traffic to indicate if “anyone is close”.
  • Drive at a safe speed for conditions and expect traffic
  • Beware of industrial, commercial and recreational traffic
  • Be aware that roads are 2-way radio assist, not radio controlled
  • Yield to industrial traffic and utilize turnouts
  • Stay alert and obey traffic signs
  • Use seatbelts

By following these simple yet essential guidelines, we can all ensure safer travels on B.C.’s Forest Service Roads, protecting not only ourselves but everyone sharing the road. Stay safe, stay alert, and always communicate.

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