** SOUTH PORCUPINE OPP NEWS RELEASE**

In a few days the Christmas holidays will be upon us. Kids will be thrilled to be enjoying all things snow, whether it’s sledding, sliding or building a snowman. The South Porcupine Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to remind outdoor enthusiasts that while winter is a great season for outdoor activities, snow can bring both fun and danger for children.

Here are some tips for a safe Christmas holiday:

  •  Choose play areas away from roads, fences and the end of driveways
  • Wear bright colors outdoors. Bright colors help drivers see children better
  • Take extra caution when crossing roads because it might be harder for drivers to see children playing
  • Don’t build forts or make tunnels along the roadway or at the end of the driveway. They can collapse and trap or injure a child, be hit by an out of control vehicle or be destroyed by a snowplow clearing the area.
  • Don’t play on roadside snowbanks. The driver of a snowplow may not see a child
  • If you can’t see the snowplow driver, they can’t see you. Stay far away from plows when they are working.
  • Wear sensible clothing – hats, gloves or mittens, snow pants, winter jacket and snow boots and change into something dry if your clothes are wet. Frostbite and hypothermia are potential dangers.

 

Enjoy the outdoors in a safe manner this holiday season. 

Filed under: Local News