ORILLIA – As Ontario residents make summer plans, OPP officials say police will be ramping up enforcement and education around safety equipment for roads, trails and waterways.
On the road
Police say the loss of 188 lives on OPP-patrolled roads between 2022 and 2024 was either attributed to or a direct result of people not wearing a seatbelt.
“Buckling up only takes a few seconds and could be the one thing that saves your life and reduces the extent of your injuries if you are involved in a collision,” police stated.
“Please buckle up and ensure children and toddlers are properly restrained.”
Off-road
Over the same three-year period (2022 to 2024), police say 43 of the 88 riders killed in off-road vehicle incidents in OPP jurisdiction chose to not wear a helmet.
“Off-roading carries unique risks for riders and their passengers, including riding on uneven terrain, which can easily cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle and crash,” OPP officials stated.
“This is when you are going to need your helmet the most, so please keep your head protected in an approved, properly fitted helmet every time you head out for a ride – even if it’s just on your own property.”
Police are also reminding motorcyclists and cyclists to always wear a properly fitted helmet.
On the water
“Unquestionably, the most under-utilized piece of equipment among road, waterway and trail users year after year is the lifejacket,” police say.
They note that of the 72 people who died in OPP-investigated marine incidents in the last three years, 59 of the boaters/paddlers chose not to wear a lifejacket.
“Whether you are in a motorized vessel, canoe, kayak or on a stand-up paddle board, don’t just toss your lifejacket aside,” police stated.
“The only lifejacket that can save your life is the one you are wearing.
“The OPP is counting on everyone to keep safety top of mind … on roads, trails and waterways so everyone can enjoy the summer months ahead.”
