Highway 11 reopened in both directions between Orillia and Huntsville late yesterday afternoon after a significant weather event stranded hundreds of vehicles and their drivers.
"Crews have been working tirelessly in plowing snow, assisting motorists and responding to emergency calls for service throughout the affected area. Reports of vehicle occupants being stranded for hours in their vehicles and residents in their homes without power resulted in challenging times for many people," says an OPP release.
A metre of snow fell in some areas,
Many residents stepped in to assist stranded motorists by providing food, water and supplies and transportation to local warming centres via snowmobiles and off-road vehicles.
The OPP reminds motorists to be prepared for any situation by driving appropriately for the road and weather conditions. Remember to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, ensure sufficient fuel/battery level with reserve, and plan ahead by monitoring local media reports. Check 511on.ca for updated road conditions.
The Government of Canada suggests you prepare an emergency car kit
Always have winter safety and emergency equipment in your car. A basic car kit should contain the following:
- Food that won't spoil, such as energy bars
- Water—plastic bottles that won't break if the water freezes (replace them every six months)
- Blanket
- Extra clothing and shoes or boots
- First aid kit with seatbelt cutter
- Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
- Candle in a deep can and matches
- Wind‑up flashlight
- Whistle—in case you need to attract attention
- Roadmaps
- Copy of your emergency plan
Items to keep in your trunk:
- Sand, salt or cat litter (non-clumping)
- Antifreeze and windshield washer fluid
- Tow rope
- Jumper cables
- Fire extinguisher
- Warning light or road flares
Follow these tips if you are stuck in the snow:
- Try to stay calm and don't go out in the cold. Stay in your car: you will avoid getting lost and your car is a safe shelter.
- Don't tire yourself out. Shovelling in the intense cold can be deadly.
- Let in fresh air by opening a window on the side sheltered from the wind.
- Keep the engine off as much as possible. Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning and make sure the exhaust pipe is not obstructed by snow.
- If possible, use a candle placed inside a deep can instead of the car heater to warm up.
- Turn on warning lights or set up road flares to make your car visible.
- Turn on the ceiling light; leaving your headlights or hazard lights on for too long will drain the battery.
- Move your hands, feet, and arms to maintain circulation. Stay awake.
- Keep an eye out for other cars and emergency responders. Try to keep clothing dry since wet clothing can lead to a dangerous loss of body heat.
