9 March 2006
Tragic Snowmobile Accident Reminder of Dangers for Snowmobilers When Operating Near Railway Tracks
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CPR Police Constable Claude Beaudry.
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CPR Police are again urging snowmobilers to operate their machines responsibly near railway tracks
as a result of the recent tragic death of a teenage boy near Dryden on 26 Feb 2006.
"It was a tragic death and sadly underscores the dangers associated with operating a machine near or on railway tracks," said
CPR Police Constable Claude Beaudry, who emphasized the company's heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased.
"Every winter, this is a concern for our company and the entire rail industry. So far this winter, in addition to this terrible
incident, we also have had reported incidents of dangerous snowmobile practices near our tracks in the Interlake, Winnipeg and
Whiteshell regions of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario."
Beaudry said CPR police are working with OPP and local police in communities like Dryden to promote railway safety - in particular
snowmobile clubs and area schools. "This loss of life reminds all of us that we have to continue to stress the dangers and the
importance of sticking to designated snowmobile trails."
In addition to risk of death or serious injury, operators are reminded each winter that if they go onto railway property where there
are no designated crossings or trails are subject to fines under the Railway Safety Act. Fines can range from $180.00 to a more serious
offence of up to $10,000 dollar fine, a one year term of imprisonment or both. Persons charged and convicted of the more serious
offence would face a criminal record.
The public is asked to assist in reporting offences occurring on railway property by contacting their local police or Canadian Pacific
Railway Police Service at: 1-800-716-9132.
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