Stranded snowmobile rider located safely: OPP

(KENORA, ON)  A 45 year old Manitoba man has been located safely after police were called about an overdue snow machine. 

On Tuesday February 16, 2016 around 6:00 pm the Kenora Marine and Trails Unit (MTU) of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were notified that a distress signal had been received by the International Emergency Response Co-ordination Centre (IERCC). 

The IERCC advised the OPP that they received a message from a GEOS personal location device that a lone male driver had become stranded on a snow machine (Motorized Snow Vehicle-MSV) near Twin Island, four kilometres north of the US/Canada Border. 

Police attended the location and found the male at approximately 11:00 pm.  His MSV had become stuck, but he was uninjured.  Police assisted in the removal of the MSV and transported the man safely to Kenora.

The OPP would like to remind the public of the importance of carrying proper survival gear, having a plan and telling someone when you leave and when you are to return, particularly if you are travelling alone. 

Drivers should take extra care to know the area they are planning to ride in and determine safe routes to and from their destination.  Drivers should be cautious as changing ice conditions can alter routes at any time. 

For these and more safety tips go to opp.ca or ofsc.on.ca.

For more information on the GEOS International Emergency Response Co-ordination Centre go to www.inreachcanada.com