RCMP are warning Manitobans to keep away from gravel pits this summer.
Vandalism, illegal fires and loud parties have prompted officers to crack down on enforcement around the pits.
Sgt. Line Karpish said not only is there damage being done, but there’s a significant risk to people’s safety when they enter the gravel pits.
“These areas are quite treacherous and can pose some hazards,” said Karpish.
RCMP are now asking residents to stay off of private property and pay heed to no trespassing signs.
“We have had fatalities in the past years in these areas,” said Karpish. “Folks go there, have parties, consume liquor and put themselves at risk.”
In recent weeks RCMP have responded to a rash of incidents in gravel pits near Beausejour and Oakbank. The areas have been plagued by vandalism to industrial equipment, cut locks, damaged fences, broken glass, illegal drinking, illegal fires and loud parties.
Karpish said what’s more troubling is the danger there is to people who enter the pits.
Two summers ago in July of 1009 a 33-year-old father and his 5-year-old son drowned after their pick-up truck drove into a water-filled gravel pit near Balmoral.
Later that year the body of a 47-year-old man was found in a gravel pit in Birds Hill Park.
In addition, in August 2010 rescue crews pulled the body of a 20-year-old man who had drowned from a gravel pit in the RM of Dauphin.
RCMP said those who choose to trespass in the gravel pits will be ticketed, and any illegally parked vehicles will be towed.
Anyone operating an off-road vehicle or ATV illegally will be charged, Karpish said.
