The Chief of Police on Walpole Island First Nation has issued a community notice in regards to an increased use of ATV’s, dirt bikes, side by side’s and golf carts within the community.
“WIFN Chief and Council, along with the Walpole Island Police Service, have received multiple complaints about these vehicles and the way they are being operated around the community,” Walpole Island police officials stated.
“In most cases they are being driven by young drivers in an unsafe and dangerous manner. Racing each other, driving around the roads and parks at high rates of speed, with too many people riding on them, driver and passengers without helmets, cutting each other off while riding down the roadways, interfering with other community member’s enjoyment of the riverfront and parks.”
Walpole Island police officials say use of these vehicles is not permitted on Walpole Island roadways without proper insurance, driver’s licenses and vehicle permits.
“The operators are also to follow the rules of the road, ensure all riders are wearing proper helmets and operate them in a safe manner to ensure the safety others as well as their own,” police officials say.
“Youth under 16 years of age should be accompanied/supervised by an adult and not operating these vehicles on the roadways. This notice is going out to make the community aware that the Walpole Island Police Service will be conducting stops and checks on these vehicles to educate the driver and passengers if they are seen operating in a way that appears to be dangerous to the occupants or others and, where there is cause too, enforcing such laws that are seen to be necessary to ensure theirs and the community’s safety.”
Walpole Island Police officials added: “Let’s all enjoy the summer weather and the activities that come with it, in a safe environment for all.”
