Kenora OPP Close Highways due to deteriorating road conditions – UPDATED

Dec 5, 2017 @ 09:06

At 9 a.m. OPP reopened Highway 17.

Dec 4, 2017 @ 18:04

Members of the Kenora Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police have closed Highway 17 from the Manitoba Border to Vermilion Bay and Highway 71 between Kenora and Fort Frances due to deteriorating road conditions. Travel is not recommended on other highways in the area.

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 traveling 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 mto.gov.on.ca or hsec.ca

STAY ALERT, SLOW DOWN AND STAY IN CONTROL