NLIS 2
May 20, 2005
(Environment and Conservation)
(Transportation and Works)
Motorists reminded to
watch out for moose when driving in province
Environment and Conservation
Minister Tom Osborne and Transportation and Works Minister Tom Rideout
today reminded motorists to keep an eye out for moose when driving on
our province�s highways.
�Government takes the issue of moose-vehicle accidents very seriously,�
said Minister Osborne. �We want to remind the driving public that
education and cautious driving are key to avoiding moose-vehicle
collisions on our roadways. To avoid a moose-vehicle accident, motorists
must remember that they need to drive carefully and slow down,
especially at night. This is a time of year when our highways are the
busiest and it is very common to see roaming moose, which increases the
chances of an accident.�
Minister Osborne said that government is embarking upon a public
education campaign using the VOCM/CFCB and K-Rock networks to better
educate motorists about the potential for moose-vehicle collisions in
our province and the importance of keeping an eye out for moose when
driving.
�Studies show that the majority of moose collisions occur at night, on
straight road sections and while driving at high speeds,� said Minister
Rideout. �Motorists must be cognizant of this at all times and take
action to avoid an accident such as reducing their speed and being extra
attentive. Posting billboards along the TCH will act as an effective
reminder for motorists that moose could be roaming nearby or crossing
the highway. We believe such an educational tool, along with others we
will be introducing, will help address moose-vehicle collisions.�
�We are committed to helping prevent moose-vehicle accidents where we
can, and we believe a public awareness campaign is a good initiative to
help address this issue,� said Minister Osborne. �Our awareness campaign
will be a phased-in approach beginning this spring with radio ads and
the installation billboards along the Trans Canada Highway (TCH).�
Minister Osborne noted the moose alert campaign involves such actions as
brochures, bumper stickers, posters and enhanced Web site information. A
Moose Alert Hotline will also be available for drivers to phone in
highway moose sightings. The gathered information will be broadcast on
VOCM/CFCB and K-Rock networks to alert drivers of the potential moose
danger in particular areas.
Approximately 700 moose-vehicle collisions occur in the province each
year.
Media contact:
Tina Coffey, Environment and Conservation, (709) 729-5783, 728-8650
Lori-Lee Oates, Transportation and Works, (709)729-3015, 690-6419
2005 05 20
11:30 a.m.
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