Ontario Provincial Police patrolled lakes and trails around North Bay last weekend, ensuring snowmobilers and anglers were staying safe and following the rules and regulations.
Officers were making sure snowmobiles were not driving aggressively or impaired, were wearing safety equipment and had proper documentation with them.
At the same time, police were checking anglers on the ice, making sure they were following Ontario fishing regulations.
“In general, people do obey the rules and regulations. They understand that snowmobiling is a fun activity for up here in the north,” said OPP acting Sgt. Michelle Simard. “
We had an abundance of snow. So the safer they are, the more fun they’re going to have."
OPP on snowmobiles patrolled Lake Nipissing on Saturday, issuing 30 charges and warnings and making contact with 350 people.
On Sunday, police were on snowmobile trails, Lake Nosbonsing, Trout Lake, and Tilden Lake and issued 25 charges and warnings.
“That’s the No. 1 important thing. Drive sober. That’s also important.”
Police said patrol locations are random and will continue until both the ice fishing and snowmobiling season come to an end.
They hope the safety message will stick with winter enthusiasts for the remainder of the season.
