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Make sure your kids stay safe during Christmas holidays: OPP issues tips

If your kids are playing outside, make sure they're not doing it on or near a roadway
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(Supplied)

The Christmas holidays are now upon us, and kids are thrilled to be enjoying all things snow, whether it's sledding, sliding or building a snowman.

The Ontario Provincial Police want to remind outdoor enthusiasts that while winter is a great season for outdoor activities, snow can bring both fun and danger for children.

Here are some tips for a safe Christmas holiday:

  • Choose play areas away from roads, fences and the end of driveways.
  • Wear bright colors outdoors. Bright colors help drivers see children better.
  • Take extra caution when crossing roads because it might be harder for drivers to see children playing.
  • Don't build forts or make tunnels along the roadway or at the end of the driveway. They can collapse and trap or injure a child, be hit by an out of control vehicle or be destroyed by a snowplow clearing the area. 
  • Don't play on roadside snowbanks. The driver of a snowplow may not see a child 
  • If you can't see the snowplow driver, they can't see you. Stay far away from plows when they are working. 
  • Wear sensible clothing - hats, gloves or mittens, snow pants, winter jacket and snow boots and change into something dry if your clothes are wet. Frostbite and hypothermia are potential dangers.

Enjoy the outdoors in a safe manner this holiday season, said a press release from the OPP.