Safety advice on a couple of fronts from the OPP

The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs and the OPP have a familiar refrain for provincial Snowmobile Safety Week which is this week.

It is prepare your machine before taking it on the trails.

Constable Carolyn Ward of the North Bay OPP says you should have the following items: a first aid kit, a rope, spark plugs, a flashlight, extra fuel, matches in a waterproof container and granola bars.

Also, let people know where you’re going, check the weather forecast, know the ice conditions whether it is safe to travel and don’t go alone.

She also suggests having ice picks  and that you wear a buoyant snowmobile suit.

Both the OPP and the OFSC suggest you stay off lakes and waterways because the conditions in much of the province are poor right now.

Charge after collision with a snowplow

Meantime, A 52 year old transport driver from Kitchener has been charged following a motor vehicle collision last week on Highway 11 in Strong Township.

Police say around noon last Tuesday a tractor trailer attempted to pass between 2 snow plows.

The driver was successful except for striking the wing of the first plow causing it to go into the ditch.

OPP say they were on hand and stopped the driver shortly after the accident.

He has been charged with failing to remain which is contrary to the Highway Traffic Act and attempting to pass when the roadway is not clear which is also contrary to the Highway Traffic Act.

Police remind motorists that they should be letting the snow plow operators do their job because they are making it safe for all vehicles to travel.

Meantime, Almaguin Highlands OPP is investigating an incident in which a motorist followed a snow plow operator back to their workplace and assaulted the driver who declined to lay charges.