Motorists reminded to watch out for moose when driving in province

Environment and Conservation Minister Clyde Jackman and Transportation and Works Minister Trevor Taylor today cautioned motorists to keep an eye out for moose when driving on our province�s roadways.

"This is the second year of a multi-year public education campaign to increase driver awareness of moose on our roads." said Minister Jackman. "We will continue with the Moose Alert hotline on VOCM/CFCB and K-Rock networks. In addition, a Be Moose Aware campaign is being aired Thursdays during the NTV Evening Newshour. There will be a series of interviews and information segments providing highlights about moose on our roadways and driving tips to help motorists reduce their risk of a moose-vehicle collision."

Minister Taylor reminded motorists that moose warning signs mark areas of higher than average moose occurrence. "Even in areas with low moose density, moose are attracted to roadways and can pose a hazard to drivers," said Minister Taylor. "Posting billboards along the TCH will act as an effective reminder for motorists that moose could be roaming nearby or crossing the highway. Additional billboards will be placed on secondary highways in the coming weeks."

Minister Taylor noted that most moose-vehicle collisions occur at night, on straight road sections and while driving at high speeds. "To avoid a moose-vehicle accident, motorists must remember that they need to drive carefully and slow down, especially at night," said the minister. "This is a time of year when our highways are the busiest and it is very common to see moose on the roads."

Minister Jackman said government is committed to helping prevent moose-vehicle accidents and public awareness is necessary to help address this issue.

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2006 05 19                                 9:25 a.m.