Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is that time of year when we see a number of individuals end up in the ditch. I have done that myself a few times in my life.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Department of Infrastructure for offering advice for winter driving. Even expert drivers must benefit from a refresher and, if you know anyone who's planning to drive up to the Northwest Territories, I hope you pass these tips along. I would like to share a couple of those tips here today:
- make sure every individual in the vehicle has warm winter clothing available;
- prepare a winter survival kit with warm clothing, candles, flashlight, matches, sleeping bags, first aid kits, pocket knife, nuts, energy bars, a brightly coloured cloth, a small shovel, sand, and a tow strap; and
- tell everyone your travel plans, when you're leaving, what route you'll be taking, and when you plan on arriving, before you leave.
Mr. Speaker, Northerners are used to helping out when others are in need. I see this all the time, not only in our communities but on our own highways and winter roads, whether it's a clear, dry night; under the midnight sun; or snowy, icy conditions at minus 40.
Personally, I've been grateful when people stopped to help me on the highway, and I've tried to pay it forward when I see others in need. Earlier this year I heard about two Sahtu residents helping out a stranded Alberta traveler on the Colville Lake winter road, one of the many stories out there.
Mr. Speaker, this past Friday evening a couple of ladies ended up in the ditch, and I would like to quote the lady: "A beautiful thing about being from and living in the North is the kindness and generosity of true Northerners. It can't be beat. Big shout-out to George and Anna Tsetso; Chris Hewitt; Tow Williams; Dave Crawford, who works for Sharps Trucking Company from Edmonton, for helping me and my mom out and getting us home safely. Thanks to Jenn Kraus for checking on us and calling for backup, and others who stopped to check on us. We are very grateful." I would like to thank those people, as well, Mr. Speaker.