Snow and ice, ordinance comes into effect on 15 November

Temperatures are around 10°C; it is still too warm for snow, but, as promised, the ordinance by Varese town council (which has been in force since 2010) is coming into effect in good time.

The council has confirmed that the rules that establish “the obligation to travel on all roads controlled by Varese town council, with special winter tyres, suitable for driving on snow and ice, or, alternatively, to carry suitable anti-skid means (appropriate for the vehicle in use),” will be in effect from 15 November to 15 March.

In the event of snow, this measure that will help to keeps traffic flowing and make driving safer. Fitting winter tyres is also a preventive measure when braking on asphalt at temperatures below 7°C.

The ordinance which concerns traffic in Varese is already in force in Como, where it was brought in at the beginning of November, and will last until 31 March. The measure also concerns Como Province, which, in this case, is in line with Varese; a few weeks ago, in fact, the rule which was in force last year was confirmed.

In short, the ordinance concerning the fitting of winter tyres (at least 2 on drive wheels) or carrying tyre chains will be in force from 15 November to 15 March, except in Como, where it will be in force from 1 November to 31 March.

“Last year, the people of Varese were very cooperative and well-behaved. The measure was necessary, after Milan and Como had issued similar ordinances. However, this measure helps a great deal in preventing car accidents, and in increasing safety on the roads, with the right equipment,” said Mayor Attilio Fontana.

The councillor for local police, Carlo Piatti, also emphasised the importance of safety. “This was the purpose of the ordinance issued last year: to make sure that drivers are prepared, in the event of snow and icy roads. Already in recent days, and when the ordinance first comes into force, if the weather conditions don’t get worse, the local Police will inform and remind drivers, during normal checks and patrolling, of the need to travel with winter tyres or to carry chains,” he explained.