OPP issue warning about moose on area highways

The South Porcupine Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is urging the motoring public to beware of moose along the highway while out driving.  As warmer weather approaches, moose can be found more frequently along the roadway to take advantage of the wet ditches and vegetation.

In the last five days, the South Porcupine OPP has responded to seven moose related collisions.  Detachment Commander Staff Sergeant Dan Foy states, “The OPP is concerned primarily about public safety.  Education is one means we are using to potentially help motorists avoid a collision with a moose or other wild animals.”

Drivers can do the following things to help prevent and/or avoid collisions.

• Follow the speed limit.  It is much easier to stop a vehicle that is not going too fast.
• Scan the shoulders of the highways so an errant moose may be spotted before it makes its way onto the road.  Have any passengers in the vehicle do this also.
• Be particularly vigilant during the hours of dawn and dusk when moose are harder to see.
• Be aware of moose crossing signage.  Those signs are strategically placed where more moose are congregating.
• If a moose is on the highway, pull over to the right onto the shoulder, turn on your hazard lights and wait for the animal to move.  Do not honk your horn or scare the moose.
• If your vehicle is involved in a collision with a moose, phone your local police so both your vehicle and the moose can be removed from the Highway quickly.