FREEZING VEHICLE DRIVERS STUCK OVERNIGHT ON SNOWMOBILE TRAIL FORCED TO CALL 911 AFTER GETTING STUCK

ORILLIA (Feb. 2) — It may be happy trails for snowmobilers glad to find sledding conditions more conducive across Central Ontario thanks to early snowfalls.

But their trails aren’t designed for cars and trucks.

They say a pair of instances lately ended with no injuries, but could have turned out differently when vehicles tried out the trails.

On two separate incidents over the past week drivers got stuck on OFSC trails in the Township of Oro-Medonte.

Overnight today, at 3:30 a.m. Sunday Feb. 2, OPP from Orillia were called to an Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club trail located in OFSC District 7.

They say a vehicle first got stuck on a trail and when a second vehicle attempted to rescue it, it too became stuck.

The drivers called 911 and with help from OPP dispatch were guided to Orillia detachment officers who and taken to a place of warmth at a local business.

In both cases the drivers were battling extreme cold conditions and they are now left with paying the towing bill to remove their vehicles.

Also, last Thursday January 30, at 3:45 p.m. police received another call from a stranded driver who had entered an OFSC snow trail also in the Township of Oro-Medonte where it also became stuck on a trail.

Several tow trucks attended the scene to remove the vehicle.

The OPP remind the public that OFSC snow trails are not assumed roadways for passenger vehicles.

Be aware of your location and drive on assumed highways only.

They say drivers should be prepared for all winter conditions, which includes driving with a safety kit. Safety kits should include candles, Portable charging batteries for phones, blankets, extra winter clothing and non-perishable food items.

On two separate incidents over the past week drivers got stuck on OFSC trails in the Township of Oro-Medonte. OFSC conditions map