Crazy 24 Hours for First Responders

Monday, 25 February 2019 at 12:10

West Region OPP have responded to at least 239 collisions in the past 24 hours and that number continues to climb every minute.

UPDATE: The W/B lanes of the 401 near Drumbo are now open.

UPDATE: The 401 W/B is closed at Oxford Road 3 because of a jacked-knifed tractor trailer that is blocking all three lanes.

The West Region OPP, which includes Oxford is currently responding to 100 collisions from this recent storm.

This includes a crash that happened 30 minutes ago at 401 W/B approaching Oxford Rd 3 Drumbo. All W/B lanes are still blocked following collision. Blowing snow has created a huge mess on our roadways today and visibility is at near zero on some stretches of the roadways.

Constable Adam Crewdson says the last 24 hours has been crazy busy for First Responders.

"It is only February 25th and we can't think that the winter driving season is over yet. Over the past 24 hours we have responded to 249 collisions. Right now we are still responding to about 100 still outstanding, so whether that is vehicles still left at the roadside or ongoing collision investigation. People need to be aware that if a road is closed, it is closed and it is illegal to drive on it. It not only puts you at risk but it puts everyone in your vehicle at risk and First Responders who have to drive out to find you."

Crewdson far no major injuries or fatalities have been recorded in the storm.

"No serious injuries or fatalities have been reported. These are winter driving collisions that are probably attributed more to winter driving conditions and people tend to drive a little bit slower and because of that the speeds are reduced and the severity of the collisions are often reduced."

Police are once again reminding drivers to slow down, turn on your headlights, make sure you vehicle is completely clear of snow and ice and drive to the conditions.

Are YOU prepared to lose complete visibility at highway speeds? A #WhiteOut will take will take your breath away. #SlowDown ahead of time, have your #lightsOn, avoid stopping in a #LiveLane of traffic and remain in your vehicle if stopped. #ClearToSteer^JC #WELLINGTONOPP pic.twitter.com/4uoiR49K94
— OPP West (@OPP_WR) February 25, 2019