Kamloops, Okanagan drivers have less than one week to get their winter tires on

Drivers in Kamloops and the Okanagan have less than one week to get their winter tires on their vehicles.

With the onset of autumn, winter tires or chains are now required on most roads in B.C. starting Oct. 1.

Winter tires have to remain on vehicles until March 31, with some highways in the province requiring them until April 30.

Outside of the obvious danger, drivers who fail to get winter tires on their vehicle will face a $121 fine. That jumps to $598 for commercial vehicles that bypass an active chain-up area.

According to ICBC both the all-season mud and snow tires and the mountain snowflake tires meet the requirements for winter tire designation in B.C.

"Mud and snow tires are a safe option if you only encounter winter conditions on a limited basis and are prepared to drive with added care and caution if winter conditions are encountered," ICBC says.

"If you live or travel in an area where you would normally and regularly expect snow, ice and slush, we recommend using four matched winter tires that carry the mountain/snowflake symbol. Mountain/snowflake tires offer a higher level of traction in harsh winter conditions."

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Tires also need to have at least 3.5 mm of tread depth and be evenly matched in size, tread type and depth.

Highways which require winter tires, all of which are in the B.C. Interior, have signs posted.

READ MORE: Kamloops area sees first snow of the season

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