New mobile radio communication protocols are being implemented on resource roads throughout B.C. and come into effect in the Rocky Mountain Natural Resource District on May 2, 2016.

The changes include new standardized road signs, radio call protocols and a bank of standardized mobile radio channels.The Rocky Mountain Forest District is over 2.6 million hectares in size and stretches from Parson in the north to the B.C.-Montana border in the south.

The new protocols will impact forest service roads and other road permit roads in the area. Those drivers using mobile radios must have the new channels programmed into their mobile radios before the transition dates. Mobile radio users are also advised to retain current radio channels and frequencies until they are no longer required.

It is recommended that mobile radio users have the full bank of standardized resource road radio channels programmed into their radios by certified radio technicians.

New signs posted on local resource roads will advise which radio channels to use and provide the communication protocols, including the road name and required calling intervals. Vehicle operators using mobile radios to communicate their location and direction of travel must use the posted radio channels and call protocols.

All resource road users in the affected areas should exercise additional caution during the transition period. Drivers are reminded that most resource roads are radio-assisted, not radio-controlled, and not to rely solely on radio communications but to drive safely according to road and weather conditions.

Local resource road safety committees have worked with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations and Industry Canada to implement these changes.

Learn more about resource road radio communications protocols and view maps online at: www.for.gov.bc.ca/hth/engineering/Road_Radio_Project.htm or by contacting Industry Canada at 1 800 667-3780.