RCMP issued a reminder today to ice fishers that the consumption of alcohol or cannabis while on the ice in illegal.
Police say that they have noticed an increased number of cases of impaired drivers going to and from fishing shacks as more people are taking top the sport during COVID-19.
“With all sorts of vehicles out and about, no determined roadway, people skiing, walking, and skating, and places where there is open water, the ice can be a challenge to drive on at the best of times,” said S/Sgt. Kyle McFadyen of Manitoba RCMP Traffic Services. “When a driver is impaired, that challenge becomes downright dangerous.”
Police say that the fine for having open liquor while on the ice or inside a fishing shack or temporary shelter is $672. Driving on the ice wile impaired brings with it the same consequences as driving impaired on a roadway. Those include a driving suspension, loss of licence, possible jail time and fines.
Police are also reminding those who go out on the ice that social distancing rules apply there too and gathering in large groups is currently not permitted.
© News4.ca 2021
