BASSANO RCMP DETACHMENT
MOUNTIE MEMO
For: November 2025
In November 2025, Bassano RCMP responded to 41 events/calls for service including various levels of criminal, traffic and public assistance related files. Below is a snapshot of some of the various calls of service Bassano RCMP attended:
Miscellaneous Files from November 2025:
Wrong Way Driver:
On November 15th, 2025, at 6:45 pm, Bassano RCMP responded to a report of a van pulling a trailer driving east in the west bound lanes of Hwy 1 near Township Road 212 in Bassano. Police were able to quickly locate the vehicle and have them pull into a safe stopping place. The 77-year-old driver from Quebec was unfamiliar with the area and had difficulty driving in the dark.
Police assisted the driver in finding a safe place to sleep for the evening and the driver received a violation ticket for driving in the wrong direction under the Traffic Safety Act of Alberta.
Motor Vehicle Collisions in the fist snow fall of the year:
On November 24th, 2025, Bassano RCMP responded to two separate 2 rollover collisions during the first snow fall of significance in Bassano.
At 07:24 am, Bassano RCMP, Fire and EMS responded to a single vehicle roll over collision on east bound Hwy 1 at Range Road 190. The driver of a work van was driving too fast in the icy/snow covered conditions and lost control due to the speed. This caused the van to careen into the median and rolled several times. The lone occupant suffered minor injuries despite the van having significant damage. The driver did not require medical treatment and received a violation ticket for driving too fast for the road conditions.
At 11:30 am Bassano RCMP, Fire and EMS responded to a single vehicle roll over collision on Duck Lake Road just north of Hwy 1. A commercial vehicle was trying to sneak passed another vehicle stuck on ice. The truck’s tire caught the shoulder of the roadway sending it rolling over into the ditch. The lone occupant suffered minor injuries despite dump truck having significant damage. The driver did not require medical treatment.
Traffic was only inhibited for a short duration while the vehicles were towed away. Impacts on Highway 1 were minimal.
On November 27th, 2025, at 10:00 am, Bassano RCMP, Fire and EMS responded to a 3-vehicle collision involving 3 commercial trucks on Hwy 561 at Range Road 184. The weather conditions were extremely foggy with very limited visibility and icy roads. While one commercial vehicle was making a turn onto Range Road 184, the rear truck did not see them resulting in the 3 trucks colliding.
The trucks suffered significant damage requiring towing. Luckily no driver received any injury. The driver of the vehicle who was responsible for the collision received a violation ticket for Fail to take reasonable steps to determine if safe to pass oncoming motor vehicle on unsafe roadway under the Traffic Safety Act of Alberta.
Police & Public Education: Help us – Help you!
Driving in winter can be physically and mentally draining. The early onset of darkness and reduced visibility mean that drivers have to stay constantly alert, which can cause mental fatigue. Cold temperatures can also cause physical discomfort, which, combined with the monotony of snowy landscapes, can lead to drowsiness.
Simple tips on how to avoid winter driving fatigue:
- Plan your route and identify safe places to take breaks when embarking on longer road trips. Stopping every couple of hours, even if just for a few minutes, can help alleviate fatigue.
- When taking driving breaks, make sure to safely get out of your vehicle and stretch, walk around and refresh yourself.
- Get enough rest and avoid starting your journey late at night or in the early morning hours when your body is naturally more tired.
- While it’s tempting to blast the heater, too much warmth can make you feel drowsy. Instead, aim for a moderate temperature and periodically crack a window to allow fresh air inside.
- Stay hydrated and snack wisely. Dehydration and hunger can worsen fatigue. Bring water to sip and healthy snacks that maintain energy levels.
- Recognize signs of fatigue and don’t try to push through them. Frequent yawning, blinking, difficulty focusing, and drifting between lanes is an indication that you need to take a break. If you notice these signs, don’t ignore them. Pull over to a safe area and take a rest.
- If possible, travel with a passenger who can share the driving duties. A companion not only helps with navigation and weather checks but can also help keep you alert through conversation.
For more winter driving safety tips, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta
Commander Quote:
“Winter driving is dangerous and the largest portion of our responses in the upcoming months. In a split second, your life could change or you could change someone else’s by simply not slowing down and driving for the conditions.
In treacherous weather conditions, all first responders, highway crews and tow company workers are putting their life on the line when responding to these calls while helping save yours. Please follow the above noted safety tips, plan ahead, listen to weather and road reports and check 511 if you are unsure of the conditions.
Drive safely and respect the crews who are responding to collisions on the roadways. Slow down, move over and give lots of space when passing. Follow the direction of the emergency crews and have patience while they do their jobs.
Everyone wants to have a safe holiday season, see family, friends and celebrate. Let’s all arrive at our destinations alive, even if it means we are a little bit late.
Thank you again this year to the residents and community that Bassano RCMP polices. You’ve all helped make things better and safer this year. From the Bassano RCMP, we wish you all the best this coming holiday season!”
Regards,
Sgt. Joe Schmidt
Sgt. Joe Schmidt
Detachment Commander
Bassano RCMP Detachment
