And they have hit them hard. The new set of rules is definitely an improvement for road safety, but one thing that’s for sure is that the new rules will cost many drivers dearly. The way these new laws are going to reflect on our lives is twofold. First, on the very basic level, drivers caught not following them will be fined. Second, those new rules will pit the balance in insurance claims and car accident ...

If you think of parsnip as a boring root vegetable from the produce section, think again.  This pesky plant is taking on a whole new meaning in Durham region. Until this summer, most people had never heard of wild parsnip or had any idea of the discomfort it could cause.  In fact, the plant isn’t even native to Canada.  The parsnip plant originated in Europe and Asia, but a wild variety is popping up in our ...

When a teen is facing a mental health crisis, they often have no idea where to turn.  Although parents, teachers and friends may be within earshot, it’s a tough conversation to begin.  They aren’t sure what to say.  They are afraid they may be misunderstood, and perhaps worried that their peers will make fun of them. Fortunately, mental health issues are beginning to lose their stigma as more and more peopl ...

Although we only get to enjoy the summer heat for a few months a year, it certainly packs a punch while it’s here.  Summer is in full swing, and hopefully you are out on the golf course or ducking away for a few weeks at the cottage.  This is also the time of year when we can use a few reminders to stay safe in the heat. Drink plenty of water.  We all know the value of staying hydrated, but it’s extra impor ...

The summer is here, and with it come the long awaited holidays.  Although the first few long weekends have come and gone, there are still a few more around the corner.  Fireworks have become a favourite family tradition.  Kids can’t get enough of them, and most of the local communities in the Durham, Ajax and Whitby area put on special displays of their own. Did you know that the Explosives Safety and Secur ...

Walk-in clinics and urgent care facilities provide a valuable resource for the residents of Durham region.  The purpose of these clinics is to assist the public when they require non-urgent medical attention, but need to speak to a professional right away.  It’s a great resource when you simply can’t wait to see your family doctor.  Typical scenarios that are seen in our local walk-in clinics are minor cuts ...

Earlier this week, a fire broke out at a home located on Colborne Street West in Oshawa.  Fortunately, no one was injured, but the fire caused an estimated $100,000 in damages.  Firefighters said that the fire most likely started in the kitchen and spread throughout the house.  Although there were no working smoke detectors in the home, everyone got out safely, and the blaze was contained within 15 – 20 min ...

Choosing a daycare is a tough job for new parents.  There are so many variables to consider, and local care facilities in the Whitby and Ajax area often fill up very quickly.  Most parents find themselves on a waiting list months before their care even begins.  Entrusting someone else with the care of your children requires a huge leap of faith, but there are a few common characteristic of good quality dayc ...

Durham Region Emergency Medical Services responds to dozens of 911 calls each week.  They help to provide our community with the best possible emergency care and save lives on a regular basis.  In addition, they provide some helpful information online to help our citizens prepare for an unexpected situation.  The good news is that help is only a phone call away. How do you decide if someone needs emergency ...

We go through life with goals and aspirations. We look forward to taking that special trip or spending time with family to celebrate milestones. What we often forget is how quickly things can change. Accidents can happen in an instant, but the after-effects can stay with us forever. If you or someone you know has been in a car crash or been the victim of a workplace accident, you have probably had a first-h ...