KENORA – Winter driving conditions have arrived in Northwestern Ontario. The Kenora Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is currently at the scene of multiple motor vehicle collisions in the area. The highway is currently blocked by a jackknifed tractor-trailer unit (TTU) on Highway 17a, west of the east junction of 17a/17. Motorists are asked to avoid this area and use alternate routes at this time.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind motorists to drive with extra care and caution. Here are some helpful road safety tips to prepare for winter driving conditions:
Prepare your vehicle
- Have your vehicle serviced in preparation for the winter season
- Have an ice scraper / snow brush in your vehicle to ensure the entire windshield and headlights are clear of ice/snow
- Fill your windshield washer fluid reservoir and have extra available
- Check your headlights to ensure they are working and free of snow
- Clean your windshield and have wiper blades checked, replace if necessary
- Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, flashlight, candle and some food / drinks
Adjust your driving
- Slow down and drive according to weather conditions, speed is the number one cause of winter collisions
- Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Blowing snow may suddenly reduce visibility, and gusting winds can cause ice to form quickly
- When travelling in an unfamiliar area, keep track of signs and landmarks in case you need to call for help in an emergency situation
- Monitor road and weather conditions. Check the forecast and road conditions before you leave for your destination. If conditions are poor, consider delaying your trip until conditions improve
The OPP reminds motorists and the public not to call the OPP for road conditions. You can call 5-1-1 for interactive up to date road conditions anywhere in Ontario. For more information refer to: www.mto.gov.on.ca or www.hsec.ca
