Iceland review - 2016, Page 115

112 ICELAND REVIEW ICELAND REVIEW 113
Given the singularity of the landscape and the innumera-
ble wonders that are visible just beyond the windshield,
driving through the Icelandic countryside is an experi-
ence that most visitors never forget. Nevertheless, it is import-
ant to remember that driving in Iceland also poses its own par-
ticular challenges and hazards—factors which drivers must be
attentive to if they are going to safely enjoy their travels.
DON’T LIKE THE WEATHER?
“Don’t like the weather?” a popular joke in Iceland asks. “Just
wait a few minutes!” It’s the kind of quip that resonates with
locals because it rings so true: weather conditions in the country
change dramatically and unexpectedly. This is especially true in
the winter, when you can expect a lot of snow and ice, even
when driving on Route 1, the Ring Road. This may be Iceland’s
main thoroughfare, but it isn’t plowed every day and parts of
it—such as in the East Fjords—are sometimes closed during the
winter. So it’s very important to prepare for all sorts of eventual-
ities when driving in Iceland, particularly in rural areas.
ONE WEBSITE, MANY RESOURCES
A great way to keep apprised of current weather conditions is
to check safetravel.is, the website maintained by the Icelandic
Search and Rescue Association (ICE-SAR). This is an invaluable
English-language resource where you can obtain up-to-date
travel advisories. On the ‘Driving’ page (safetravel.is/driving),
you’ll also get in-depth information about Icelandic traffic laws,
road signs, off-road driving restrictions, and more.
Outdoor adventurers will benefit from the website’s equip-
ment lists, crevasse maps, and Personal Location Beacon (PLB)
rental information. And all travelers in Iceland are advised to
take advantage of the website’s Travel Plan registration system,
which allows you to log your personal information and travel
itinerary directly with ICE-SAR in case of emergency.
112 FOR EMERGENCIES
Good preparedness can help you to avoid dangerous situations
in Iceland. In the event of an emergency, however, it’s important
to be able to not only contact ICE-SAR quickly, but also to ac-
curately pinpoint your location. 112 is the emergency number in
Iceland; call to connect with local fire, police, ambulance, search
and rescue, natural disaster, or child protection departments.
The freely available 112 app for smartphones is also a great
resource while visiting the country. This app has two functions:
click the green ‘check in’ button at regular intervals and your
location will be recorded with ICE-SAR. This will make it easier
for ICE-SAR to find you in an emergency situation. Or click the
red emergency button, sending your location to the 112 center,
and place a call to 112. Once in contact with 112, answer their
questions and be as clear as possible in describing your emer-
gency need.
An SMS to 112 can work even when signal conditions are
poor, but should you find yourself completely without a signal,
most often, all you need to do is move to a more elevated area.
safetravel.is
The best motto for traveling
in Iceland? Be Prepared!
Travel Safe
with
safetravel.is
SPECIAL PROMOTION DRIVING AROUND ICELAND
PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY SIGÓSIG PHOTOGRAPHY.