The Ontario government is providing the Town of Gravenhurst with up to $780,000 to help pay for emergency response and clean up costs due to extreme snowfall that occurred in November 2024. This financial support is being provided through the Municipal Disaster Recovery Assistance (MDRA) program, and is part of the province’s plan to protect Ontario with investments to help repair important infrastructure when disaster strikes, keeping workers on the job and communities safe.

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With recent snowfall creating large, towering snowbanks, it’s tempting to start digging and building. However, snow structures built near roadways and driveways pose serious risks. Snowplows and passing vehicles can shift or collapse snowbanks without warning, turning a fun afternoon into a potentially life-threatening situation – especially if children are hidden from view.

Each year, emergency crews respond to incidents involving snow forts constructed too close to roads. Although roadside snowbanks may seem like the perfect building spot, they are not safe play areas. Drivers and plow operators may be unable to see a child playing in or around a snow structure near the street.

This is not just a local concern. Communities across Ontario face similar risks during the winter months. Municipalities throughout the province are encouraged to promote safe building locations and remind families to choose appropriate areas where children can enjoy winter activities without being exposed to traffic hazards.

Residents are urged to select safer spots for snow play, such as backyards, parks, or other designated play areas. With a little planning and awareness, families can enjoy the season while preventing avoidable accidents.

Let’s work together to keep winter full of fun – not emergencies. Stay safe and make smart choices when enjoying the snow.

Members of the Dufferin OPP remain committed to public safety through proactive, community-focused policing and appreciate the public’s ongoing support in helping keep neighbourhoods safe.

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New for 2026, we will have an inflatable winter maze and an 8m (27ft) tall snowman bouncy castle.

Attendees will be treated to a skating performance by the Penetanguishene Skating Club at 11:30 a.m. followed by an open public skating period. A free pancake lunch will be provided by Phil’s Catering beginning at 12:00 p.m. After lunch, everyone is encouraged to get active during our Groove Dancing session at 12:30 p.m.

Activities that you can enjoy throughout the event include try-it on snowshoeing, mini stick arena, free hot chocolate, s’mores by the fire, and maple taffy. Children and family activities will be provided by the Wye Marsh, Midland Public Library, Springwater Public Library, and the Severn Sound Environmental Association.

“I always look forward to Winter Carnaval d’Hiver as an opportunity to celebrate winter in Tiny as a community,” said Mayor David Evans. “This year, we’re excited to bring in an inflatable winter maze and a giant snowman bouncy castle for the kids, and we will have an interactive dance program for everyone. There are always so many activities for family and friends to enjoy, and plenty of snacks. We hope to see you there!”

The Township of Tiny would like to thank our community partners, sponsors, and volunteers for making this event possible such as Lafontaine Iron Werks, Tim Hortons at Highway 93 and Balm Beach Road for donating hot chocolate, and Phil’s Catering for the pancake lunch donation, Windlee Farms for the maple taffy, and Tiny Cove Cottage Bakery in Lafontaine for the cookies.

For more information about the Winter Carnaval d’Hiver, visit www.tiny.ca/WinterCarnaval.

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From CAMH

What Is SAD?

Do you find yourself a little more tired and low energy during the colder, darker months of winter? It’s not just in your head, you could be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

SAD was first identified in the 1980s by psychiatrist Dr. Norman Rosenthal, who noticed people reliably felt worse in winter and better in spring. Since then, research has confirmed this seasonal pattern—and the good news is, it’s very treatable.

Recognizing Symptoms & Expert Insights

Even subtle shifts in daylight, such as those caused by Daylight Saving Time, can worsen symptoms by disrupting circadian rhythms and reducing exposure to natural light, which affects serotonin and melatonin levels key hormones tied to mood and sleep.

How to cope with SAD

Self-care: Prioritize nutritious meals and consistent eating schedules to support physical and emotional well-being.
Protect your sleep: Maintain regular sleep patterns, avoid screens before bed, and wake at consistent times.
Stay connected: Build a support system—friends, family, therapists, or coaches—who offer connection and comfort.
Daily movement: Exercise activates mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and adrenaline, improving motivation and resilience.
Pace yourself: Avoid overcommitting and create space for rest, reflection, and relationships.

Additional Tips for Winter Wellness

• Seek daylight: Spend time outdoors, keep curtains open, and sit near windows—even on cloudy days.
• Try light therapy: Under medical guidance, UV-filtered light boxes can help regulate mood and sleep.
• Reduce stress: Talk to a mental health professional, explore meditation, and build routines that soothe rather than strain.
• Stay proactive: Recognize early signs and respond with compassion and structure.

About the Author

Dr. Donna Ferguson, C.Psych, ABPP, is a board-certified clinical psychologist, Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto, and clinical leader at CAMH’s Work Stress and Health Program. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, workplace mental health, and cognitive behavioural therapy.

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It’s no secret that electric vehicle (EV) sales have been steadily increasing in Canada, with every major manufacturer expanding their lineup and R&D efforts. According to analysis from Transport Canada, EVs and plug-in hybrids made up around 13 per cent of all light-duty vehicle sales in July 2024, up from 11 per cent the previous year, showing continued momentum in adoption across the country. Additionally, a large majority of EV drivers have reported that they would choose an EV again for their next vehicle purchase, meaning that we can continue to expect more EVs on the road in the coming years.

Despite the increase in Canadians getting behind the wheel of an EV, range anxiety and the lack of access to charging stations remains one of the most persistent concerns among potential buyers.

While battery innovation will advance in the coming years, the parts installed on an EV can significantly impact its range right now. When it comes to tires, factors like temperature, wear and tear, and load capacity all influence the distance an EV can travel on a single charge.

A Michelin survey of more than 1,500 Canadians revealed that most current EV owners and potential buyers don’t fully recognize the role tires play in battery life and efficiency. Like any technological shift, education is critical, which is why it’s important to understand how tires contribute to the overall performance of your EV.

Below are some of the key knowledge gaps the survey revealed, and how you can alleviate range anxiety with something as simple as the tires you put on your car.

More weight means less distance

EVs are heavier than gas-powered vehicles due to the size and weight of their batteries. More weight on tires means more rolling resistance and energy consumption which directly affects range.

Yet 76 per cent of Canadians surveyed were unaware that tire quality can influence EV performance. To support this extra weight, EVs need larger tires or models with increased load-bearing capacity. By equipping your EV with tires designed specifically to handle this added weight, you can improve efficiency and extend your range.

High torque results in significant rolling resistance

The survey also found that 83 per cent of Canadians didn’t connect battery life with tire age, while 68 per cent didn’t realize that rolling resistance plays a role in efficiency.

Since EVs deliver instant torque, their tires experience higher stress, making rolling resistance and tire durability even more important for maintaining range. Interestingly, worn tires can provide nearly six per cent more range compared to brand-new ones, further highlighting the value of long-lasting, high-quality tires.

By choosing one of the many high-performance tires that Michelin has engineered for EVs, drivers can maintain lower rolling resistance for longer, improving range without compromising safety or tread life.

Cold weather has a greater effect on EVs

Canadian winters pose another major challenge. Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance by up to 30 per cent, and while most drivers are aware of that impact, 81 per cent don’t realize how winter tires can help.

The best winter tires are designed with specialized compounds and tread patterns that maintain grip and keep rolling resistance low even in cold, wet, or icy conditions. For EV drivers, that means not only safer handling but also more efficient energy use, ultimately resulting in longer range on every charge. For drivers looking to get the most from their EV year-round, choosing tires built specifically for electric performance can make a measurable difference in both safety and efficiency. If you’re looking for the right tire for your EV, you can visit michelin.ca.

As more consumers consider purchasing EVs, range anxiety will continue to top their concerns. But it’s important to understand how something as simple as the right set of tires can alleviate those concerns, enhance performance, and help make the switch to electric a confident one.

*This Article Is Sponsored By: Michelin 

The post The Secret To Going Farther In Your EV appeared first on Muskoka411.

“Now is the ideal time for motorists to install winter tires, check their car battery, and ensure they have an emergency car kit packed,” says Nadia Matos, manager of external communications, CAA SCO. “These simple steps can help motorists confidently navigate winter roads. Ontario weather can be unpredictable, and snowstorms can hit without much notice, so it’s always best to ensure your vehicle is prepared beforehand.”

Besides vehicle preparedness, driver behaviour is just as critical in ensuring safe driving operations in winter weather.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” says Sergeant Murray Campbell of the Toronto Police Service. “As daylight hours shorten and visibility decreases, we encourage all road users to stay alert, watch out for one another, adjust their driving to match weather conditions, keep their vehicle lights on, and plan ahead to accommodate longer travel times.”

This year, the organizations are focused on protecting motorists who may be caught in unexpected winter weather.

“We always encourage motorists to drive according to the road and weather conditions,” says Sergeant Kerry Schmidt of the Ontario Provincial Police. “Drivers should also slow down and move over when approaching stopped emergency vehicles and tow trucks with their emergency lights flashing while they are assisting vehicles and motorists in need of help. It is also unsafe and illegal to try to pass a full echelon of snowplows that are clearing all lanes of a highway during winter events.”

Before heading out on the road this winter, MTO encourages motorists to download and use the 511 app to check the weather and road conditions before they leave home. The 511 app can be found at 511on.ca or in the app store on their mobile devices.

For a safer trip this winter, motorists can also follow these additional safety tips:

• Install winter tires for better traction. On cold and snowy roads, winter tires can help reduce your braking distance by up to 25 per cent. Members can call CAA before Dec. 20 to have our mobile tire service change them at home for a fee.
• Test your car battery. If necessary, replace it before it fails. CAA SCO will test Members’ batteries free of cost during a service call.
• Pack a fully stocked emergency car kit. The kit should include a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices (e.g., flares, reflective vests/strips), a first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, non-perishable food and water, and a phone charger. Be sure to always keep an ice scraper, small shovel, and snow brush handy in your car.
• Service your vehicle. Have your brakes checked, oil changed, and top up your windshield washer fluid and any other fluids that are getting low.
• Always keep your gas tank at least half full. Cold weather causes condensation in the system, which can lead to a fuel line freeze-up and prevent the car from starting.
• Check your lighting system. Ensuring you have full lighting is very important in the winter months. Check your headlights and signal lights to ensure they work correctly.

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Bracebridge OPP officers responded to sixteen motor vehicle collisions during the first snowfall of the season, the majority of which occurred on secondary roads, and none resulted in significant injuries.

Police are reminding motorists to take the time to prepare themselves and their vehicles for safe winter driving as we head into the winter months, including some safety tips:

• Clear your vehicle entirely of snow, that includes your roof and all windows
• Top up your windshield washer fluid
• Ensure that your vehicles lighting system is working and ON so that other drivers can see you
• Slow down in response to changing weather conditions
• Increase your reactionary gap and give other vehicles extra space on the road
• Allow yourself extra time to complete your trip and be patient
• Plan your trip before starting out. Visit the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) web site for road conditions at: www.511on.ca.
• Carry a survival kit in your vehicle. For a description of a winter driving survival kit visit: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/winterdrive/winterdrive.shtml. Recommended items include a shovel, blanket, warm clothes, food, booster cables, flashlight, high energy foods, matches and a candle.
• As always, do NOT drive if you have drugs or alcohol in your system.

The post Bracebridge OPP Officers Responded To 16 Collisions During First Snowfall appeared first on Muskoka411.

A few proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of traffic incidents, especially during icy and snowy conditions.

Motorists are encouraged to:

• Install winter tires for improved traction and control
• Schedule routine maintenance checks, including brakes, battery, fluids and heating systems
• Ensure windshield wipers and defrosters are functioning properly
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, a flashlight, and non-perishable snacks

Slippery roads, reduced visibility and changing conditions require extra caution. Adjust your driving to meet the conditions and remain focused on the road and on other vehicles.

Always:

•  Stay alert – slow down and increase your following distance, especially in snowy or icy conditions
• Avoid braking suddenly, always use your headlights in low visibility and remember to clear ALL snow from your vehicle before driving
• Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and be respectful of other road users
• Before heading out, check the MTO’s Ontario 511 and Traveller Information Service for 24/7 and up-to-date access to road information on provincially maintained highways, and monitor local radio for updates

If an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency police matters, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

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Do your part to be prepared for the winter months ahead for the safety of yourself and others:

• Clear sidewalks and walkways of ice, snow, and slush promptly after a winter weather event;
• Ensure there are no vehicles parked on the road between 2 and 6 am. On-street parking is prohibited during that time from October 16 to April 15;
• Clear drains, sewers and downspouts of excess ice and snow to ensure proper drainage;
• Have an emergency kit ready in the event of an emergency or power outages;
• Keep an eye on children and choose play areas away from roads, water, fences and the end of driveways; and
• Be a good neighbour. Check in on seniors and vulnerable members of the community to ensure they are warm and safe.

Keeping road allowances clear
A road allowance is a strip of land reserved for the Government by a Crown Surveyor, for the purposes of servicing lots within a concession. While it may look like residential property, it is public land. Please keep this area clear of seasonal décor, sports equipment, debris and gardens to ensure road maintenance and plowing can take place safely.

Smart salt usage
As part of the Town’s new Salt Management Plan, the Town of Bracebridge is encouraging residents and businesses to be salt conscious this winter. Road salt helps keep roads, sidewalks, and parking lots safe, but when used excessively, it can harm the environment and affect local drinking water sources. The Town is implementing best practices for salt storage, application, and monitoring to protect water quality, while continuing to prioritize public safety. Residents can help by shoveling first, using only what’s needed, and storing salt properly to prevent runoff into storm drains, rivers, and lakes.

Town of Bracebridge crews are responsible for maintaining approximately 322 km of District and municipal roads and 60 km of sidewalks. Patience is appreciated during winter weather events to ensure crews can safely and efficiently clear roads and sidewalks. If you have a question about the maintenance of a particular road, make sure to connect with the right department.

• District of Muskoka roads
• Town of Bracebridge roads

To learn more about winter road maintenance and operations, visit bracebridge.ca/winteroperations.

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“Town staff and equipment are ready to keep roads and sidewalks clear,” said Andrew Stacey, director of infrastructure services. “Our snowplow drivers have been practicing their routes. We ask that the public help us this winter by ensuring obstacles are removed from sidewalks and local roadways. This includes such things as hockey and basketball nets, as well as garbage and recycling containers.”

People are reminded that starting Nov. 1, overnight parking on municipal roads is prohibited. Failure to adhere to the town’s winter parking bylaw could result in a fine. The town can also impound vehicles left on roadways overnight. Vehicles parked on roadways overnight can negatively impact snow removal operations. 

Road and sidewalk maintenance is a big job, managed by the town’s Public Works division. The town is responsible for more than 70 kilometres of asphalt roads, 63 kilometres of gravel roads, 132 kilometres of surface treated roads, and roughly 24 kilometres of sidewalks. 

The town’s mission is to provide safe roads and sidewalks during the winter season in a cost effective and efficient manner. Roads are maintained in accordance with provincial minimum maintenance standards.

Roads are categorized into five main classes. Class 1, 2, and 3 are priority roads – typically highways and main arterial roads – and classes 4 and 5 are local streets. Main roads take priority so that critical services such as police, fire, and paramedics can get around. 

The town’s Winter Operations webpage contains a variety of information that residents are encouraged to review to better understand the municipality’s approach to snow removal.

Included on the page is a helpful FAQ section.

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