OPP responds to more than a dozen collisions, warning road conditions are ‘unpredictable’

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) East Region responded to over a dozen collisions this morning alone.

While flurries and rain are expected across Ottawa and the surrounding region driving conditions during the winter months are often unpredictable due to precipitation and temperature changes, wrote OPP in post on X.

“If road conditions are not ideal, adjust your driving. Slow down, leave extra distance between you and the car ahead and ALWAYS keep your eyes on the road ahead,” police added.

Additionally, Greenville OPP reported two minor collisions on Highway 416 near Spencerville, early this morning. Police issued a road condition notice, with reports of black ice on the bridge and ramps for the Town of Prescott.

“Take your time travelling this morning and drive according to the road conditions. Remember that snow tires won’t always save you, but driving habits will,” wrote Grenville OPP in a news release.

As flurries and icy road conditions become more frequent, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is stressing ice and trail safety this winter — providing safety tips for common winter activities like snowmobile and tobogganing.

OPS is reminding residents to exercise caution during seasonal activities and follow essential precautions to stay safe, they wrote in a news release.

The state of Ottawa’s waterways are unpredictable during the winter months and ice thickness can very significantly, resulting in hidden dangers, added OPS.

Frigid temperatures in icy waters can lead to hypothermia and self-rescue is nearly impossible, they warned.

Ice safety tips provided by the Ottawa Police Service, include:

• Avoid venturing onto icy waterways: Ice is inherently dangerous and unpredictable, particularly at this time of year. Always stay away from rivers, ponds, creeks, and ditches, even if they appear frozen. 
• Supervise children and pets: Children are naturally curious and may wander toward icy areas, which can be life-threatening. A child can drown in less than two inches of water. Keep pets leashed near waterways, as rescuing a pet can place you in danger. 
• Do not attempt a rescue: If someone or a pet ventures onto thin ice and falls through, do not follow them. Call 9-1-1 immediately for professional help. 

While many enjoy riding off-road vehicles or snowmobiles on winter trails, these activities come with risks, noted OPS.

The Ottawa Police Marine Dive and Trail (MDT) officers can be found on many trails doing education and enforcement with drivers of off-road vehicles and snowmobiles, they added.

According to the Ottawa Police Service, suggestions for staying safe on winter trails include remaining on designated trails and avoiding waterways, even if they appear frozen. 

While trail conditions can change over a day due to weather and traffic, trail-goers should adjust their driving to the changing conditions, Ottawa police added.

#LeedsOPP continues to investigate a single vehicle rollover where the driver was transported to hospital for serious injuries.

Just after 9:00 a.m. this morning, reports of a rollover were received on Highway 15, just south of Bush Road.

The 63 year-old driver from Carleton… pic.twitter.com/ABoSnEdPHA

— OPP East Region (@OPP_ER) December 15, 2024

OPS recommends those driving motorized snow vehicles (snowmobiles) should: 

• Always wear proper safety equipment 
• Carry proof of valid insurance, ID, and a trail pass 
• Stay on designated trails and avoid trespassing or venturing onto ice or water
• Drive sober and obey posted speed limits
• Operate snowmobiles during daylight hours when visibility is better

For those enjoying sledding or tobogganing, OPS urges residents to follow these safety tips: 

• Only sled on hills that are free of obstacles like trees, rocks, and fences. Respect any city signs or barriers
• Avoid icy hills or those near roads, railways, or bodies of water 
• Always wear a helmet. Hockey or ski helmets are recommended for their impact resistance and cold-weather design
• Supervise children at all times  
• Avoid sledding after dark

The Ottawa Police Service are urging residents to recognize the risks of winter activities and poor road conditions, always being aware of their surroundings.

When heading out for the day, OPS is asking individuals to inform someone where they’re going and when they’ll return.

Additionally, ensuring cell phones are fully charged and being aware of changes in cell service, depending on location, are critical.

To help OPS find you in an emergency, download the What3Words app. 

“Whether you’re skating, sledding, or enjoying the trails, planning and taking precautions will help ensure a safe and memorable winter season,” wrote OPS.