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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