Seasonal ice roads are beginning to open throughout the region.
The roads help connect isolated First Nations communities to major highway networks.
When the roads open vehicular traffic heavily increases in the north.
The OPP plans to be out ensuring public safety.
Officers from Pickle Lake, North Caribou Lake First Nation, and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation are working with local partners to focus policing efforts on traffic enforcement on local roadways, highways and ice roads.
“Distracted driving, excessive speed, misuse of seatbelts, and impaired driving – also known as ‘the big four’, have been identified as the leading causes of death or injury on OPP-patrolled roadways,” explained the OPP in a release. “Officers will be on the lookout for these traffic safety concerns, as well as proper vehicle equipment and maintenance, which is essential for the safety of drivers travelling into more remote locations.”
The provincial police are encouraging the public to contact them at 1-800-310-1122 if they see dangerous driving.
