POLICE will be taking a zero-tolerance approach to unprepared drivers trekking to the snow this season after nearly 1500 drivers were turned back at Mount Hotham alone last year.

While police have observed a growing number of people travelling to the snow for single-day trips, the force has seen many arriving without understanding the road rules, weather risks or equipment requirements for alpine travel.

All vehicles entering alpine areas during the declared snow season are required by law to carry wheel chains and fit them when instructed.

Failing to carry chains may result in a $395 fine, while failing to fit them when required may attract a $988 penalty.

In the last snow season, police turned around 1471 drivers at Mount Hotham alone for not carrying wheel chains.

Superintendent Joy Arbuthnot said wheel chains were essential for navigating steep, icy roads and the failure to use them appropriately puts all road users at risk.

“We’ve seen cars slide off the edge of mountainsides, families stranded in dangerous conditions, and collisions that could have been avoided,” she said.

“Visiting the snow is a popular tradition for many, and an exciting trip for tourists, but it’s important to remember it can quickly turn into a very serious situation if you’re not prepared.

“Your safety, and the safety of everyone else on the mountain, starts before you even leave home… don’t put lives at risk.”

Police and authorised officers will be conducting checks across key routes into alpine resorts including Mount Hotham and Falls Creek.

They will also maintain a visible presence across the snowfields with local police, highway patrol, the Heavy Vehicle Unit, Liquor Control Victoria officers and dedicated alpine police conducting proactive patrols and enforcement during the season.

Officers responded to 16 incidents during last year’s snow season, including the rescue of a stranded solo hiker on Mount Feathertop, who was forced to camp out overnight in freezing conditions while emergency services arrived.

In another incident, a family travelling from Gippsland to Mount Hotham were directed by their GPS system onto the seasonally closed Dargo High Plains Road, where they were stranded in deep snow.

There was also several impaired drivers detected across the snowfields last season.

Those planning a snow trip, particularly day-trippers, are urged to familiarise themselves with alpine road rules and conditions, and ensure they have a backup plan in place should the weather change or access be restricted.

Other key safety tips for those heading to the snow include:

• ensure your car’s radiator is filled with anti-freeze and if diesel use Alpine Mix.

• drive cautiously with gradual pressure on the accelerator to avoid wheel spin.

• brake gently and avoid unnecessary gear changes.

• Maintain a safe braking distance from vehicles in front, especially in poor visibility.

• Let someone know where you are going and how long you will be.

• Regularly check weather and snow conditions as conditions can change quickly.

• If lost – stop, seek shelter, call Triple Zero (000) and wait.