Media Release
(LONDON, ON) – You won’t hear snowmobilers in Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) West Region grumble about this winter’s heavy snow and icy cold weather. This winter’s ideal riding conditions are a great opportunity to enjoy the sport safely.
From February 9, 2026, until February 16, 2026, the OPP, in partnership with the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC), are hitting the trails for Motorized Snowmobile Week. The week-long education and enforcement campaign targets the unsafe riding behaviours that lead to death, injury and property damage both on and off Ontario snowmobiling trails.
Excessive speed, loss of control, alcohol impairment and inattentive riding are the leading contributing factors to fatal snowmobile collisions in Ontario.
OPP West Region members want to avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 riding season, when five riders lost their lives in fatal motorized snow vehicle (MSV) collisions (Middlesex County – one death, Perth County – two deaths, Huron County – one death, Lambton County – one death). There have been three fatal snowmobile collisions in West Region so far in 2026. (Brant County, Oxford County, South Bruce)
Before hitting the trails, make preparations to ensure your ride is a safe one:
-Wear a helmet and other safety gear
-Don’t ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
-Don’t ride on private property. Instead, stay on approved trails.
-Check current trail status on the OFSC website.
-Check the weather forecast.
-Let someone know about your riding plans.
“Taking a few extra steps helps ensure everyone gets home safely and can keep enjoying everything Ontario’s winter has to offer.” – Inspector Mike McConnell/OPP West Region Traffic and Marine Manager
Have You Ever Thought About Joining The OPP Auxiliary Unit?
West Region OPP Hosting Auxiliary Constable Information Sessions
(LONDON, ON) – West Region Headquarters of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is thrilled to announce that it will be hosting Auxiliary Constable information sessions this month!
The OPP information session provides participants with the opportunity to gain knowledge, insight and helpful advice relating to the Auxiliary OPP recruitment process. The session includes an overview of how to apply, prerequisites, expectations of an applicant and an overview of how to prepare for each stage of the process. This presentation will benefit those candidates who want to learn more about the OPP recruitment process to ensure that they are at their competitive best before they apply.
The first event took place on February 23, 2026 in London.
The second event takes place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 12:00 p.m., to 2:00 p.m., at West Region Headquarters located at 6355 Westminster Drive, London. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1982689151625?aff=oddtdtcreator
Participants must pre-register by visiting the links provided and adhere to the cancellation policy, dress code, and instructions on the registration page. Parking will be available on-site.
For more information about OPP careers, and a list of upcoming events, visit opp.ca/events. You can also visit opp.ca/auxiliary to learn more about the program.
