Summer now official, police advise they’ll be out on roads, waterways and trails, ensuring people are wearing proper safety equipment.
The Ontario Provincial Police note that over the past five years, hundreds of people of all ages have died in OPP-investigated traffic/marine incidents in which failure to wear safety equipment was a primary cause or contributing factor in their death.
OPP statistics show that between 2018 and 2022:
- Number of drivers/passengers killed in collisions who did not wear a seatbelt: 279
- Number of boaters/paddlers killed in marine incidents who did not wear a lifejacket: 114
- Number of drivers/passengers killed in off-road vehicle incidents who did not wear a helmet: 54
- Number of motorcyclists killed in motorcycle incidents who did not wear a helmet: 19
Police point out that off-road vehicle riders and motorcyclists are required by law to wear an approved helmet, securely fastened under the chin with a chin strap. Motor vehicle drivers are required by law to ensure all passengers under the age of 16 are properly wearing their seatbelt.
“When heading out for a boat ride, a drive, or a paddle or trail ride this summer, please wear your safety gear. Having the protection of a seatbelt, lifejacket or helmet gives you and your family your best chance at surviving a life-threatening situation on roads, waterways and trails. The OPP wants to see everyone have a safe and enjoyable summer,” said OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique in a release.
“As people gather this week to enjoy the warm weather, wrap up school activities and celebrate Canada Day, Ontario’s roads, trails and waterways may be busier than usual. I encourage everyone to stay alert and use the required equipment to protect yourselves and your families. Seatbelts, helmets and lifejackets save lives,” added Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.
JUNE 20
1:08 PM | A male reportedly exited a business on Farmers Market Road in Woolwich with merchandise he did not pay for. The male left the area on foot. The suspect is described as white male, approximately 25-30 years old, 5’7”, with an average build, wearing a red hat, black shirt and black shorts. Anyone with information is asked to call police. Anonymous information can be provided to Crime Stoppers.
JUNE 22
5:41 PM | Waterloo Regional Police received a report of a single-vehicle collision in Woolwich Township. A vehicle travelling south on Arthur Street North near Tilman Road struck a deer that ran east across the roadway. No injuries were sustained by the driver in the collision.
JUNE 26
3:52 AM | Waterloo Regional Police responded to a report of a suspicious male near a residence in the area of Nightingale Crescent in Elmira. The unknown male brandished a knife when confronted by the homeowner. The male then left the area on foot. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-570-9777. To provide anonymous information, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit online at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.
11:15 PM | Police have arrested a 20-year-old Wellesley man and seized suspected cocaine after a traffic stop in Wellesley Township. An officer on patrol conducted a traffic stop in the area of Queens Bush Road and Nafziger Road, administering a roadside screening test on the driver, who registered an alert. Through investigation, officers located and seized suspected cocaine. The man was subsequently arrested and charged with ‘possession for the purpose of trafficking,’ ‘novice driver- blood alcohol concentration above zero,’ ‘disobey stop sign - fail to stop,’ ‘owner drive motor vehicle - no insurance,’ ‘drive vehicle with cannabis readily available’ and ‘having care or control of a motor vehicle with unsealed container of liquor.’
