Northumberland OPP were out on the snowmobile trails over the holiday weekend.
Constable Jeff LaPorte and Sgt. Pat Toms were out on snowmobiles patrolling the trails in and around Northumberland Forest on Saturday, Sunday and Monday..
Speaking with Today’s Northumberland on Saturday, February 16, 2019, LaPorte said for the most part everybody is doing really well.
“There is quite a bit of ice on the trails, so we’ve asked that people take care, especially in the corners.
LaPorte said almost all of the people are happy to see police patrolling the trails.
“We just want to make sure that people who are enjoying themselves are doing it safely and following the rules.”
“There has been very few problems on the trails this year.”
The officers spoke to a pair of riders in the parking lot just as they were unloading their sleds for the day on the trails.
Jared Burke from Newmarket said it was good to see the officers and speak with them.
“They were nice guys,” said Burke.
“They came over and asked how the day is going. It’s nice to see them around and nice to see that they are out here with a good demeanor. It’s good to see they are making sure everybody is safe.”
LaPorte commented on how well prepared Burke was for snowmobiling.
“He’s got all the right equipment.”
A pick axe if he goes into the water, ice picks, proper floatation suit and he’s riding with another person.
“If you’re out far enough and it’s cold and later in the evening and if there is a break down, it’s really better to have two separate sleds.”
The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs maintain the trails during the seasons so if you are on the trails you have to have a permit. Along with ownership, insurance and a valid driver’s license are the law when you are on the trails.
LaPorte said with the increase in the amount of snow on the trails, “we are going to be out a lot more.”
On Saturday and Sunday, OPP issued two warnings for documents nd one charge for no insurance card.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
