The North West OPP says a traffic safety initiative is in effect until the closure of our seasonal ice roads.

Police say they’ll be working with local partners to focus on ‘the big four’ dangerous driving habits that are the leading causes of death on OPP-patrolled roadways – distracted driving, excessive speeds, misuse of seatbelts and impaired driving – on the region’s ice roads.

The OPP notes officers in Pickle Lake, North Caribou Lake First Nation and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation are already on patrol and conducting the safety campaign.

Members of the public are reminded to contact the OPP if they see a driver operating a motor vehicle in a dangerous manner by calling 1-800-310-1122.

Kenora’s Leonard Boucha – who has helped maintain the ice roads on Lake of the Woods for years now – says thickness is improving, but residents are asked to watch for any fresh along high banks on the ice. He notes drivers should keep their speed to 60 km/h or under, as the road’s less straight than usual.

It’s a later start to the ice road season in the region, due to the mild weather we experienced earlier this winter. With colder temperatures hitting the area, the ice’s thickness is expected to continue to improve over the coming days and weeks.

(With files from Ryan Forbes)