ICBC is warning travellers to plan ahead and drive safely during the last long weekend of summer.

On average, there are 1,725 crashes resulting in 515 injuries and five deaths across the province over the Labour Day long weekend, according to the insurance corporation.

Police report that driver inattention, alcohol and speed are the top contributing factors.

People planning trips should build in time for rest breaks and delays, according to the insurance corporation — because there are usually more cars on the road this weekend. Drivers are also warned to check road and weather reports before departing.

B.C. Ferries will have extra ferries sailing from all of its major terminals over the long weekend, including ferries sailing between Horseshoe Bay and both Nanaimo and the Sunshine Coast.

Travellers can still expect to wait, however, during the busiest travel times, including departures from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo on Friday afternoon and departures leaving Nanaimo on Monday afternoon.

Most ferry reservations on Horseshoe Bay routes are already booked for Friday and Monday afternoons of the long weekend.

Those without reservations should arrive well in advance and be prepared to wait.

For people heading to the United States, the Canada Border Services Agency warns that travellers need proper identification, including either a passport or enhanced driver’s licence. Children also need proper identification. Drivers should also try to avoid peak traffic times — usually in the later afternoon/early evening — and monitor border wait times on the agency’s website at www.cbsa.gc.ca.

jseyd@nsnews.com