City concerned about tunneling danger

In this Dec. 2012 file photo, snowbanks line Second Street West in Cornwall after a snowstorm. (Newswatch Group/File)

CORNWALL – All that snow can be really inviting for children, but the city is warning residents to keep their children from making tunnels in snowbanks.

The practice has led the tragic consequences in the past where tunnels have collapsed, trapping a suffocating young children.

In other cases, vehicles that lose control can sometimes crash into snowbanks and contractors clearing snow could unknowingly close off a snow tunnel entrance, trapping those inside.

“Parents are encouraged to monitor your children’s outdoor activities to ensure that they are not putting themselves in harm’s way,” said Tommy Sauve, the city’s safety supervisor.

Sauve is urging parents to talk to their kids about the dangers of snow tunnels and snow caves.