OPP: Don’t let “living it up” on a snowmobile cost you your life
This week is Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week, and the OPP is reminding snowmobilers to practice safe riding.
There were seven snowmobile deaths in the province this winter, and 15 last year.
“Snowmobiling is meant to be enjoyable outdoor fun and should never result in the loss of life or injuries,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Karen Meyer. “OPP-investigated snowmobile fatalities reveal the same unnecessary risks being taken year after year. Preventable behaviours like excessive speeding or alcohol and drug impairment put your safety – and your return to your loves ones – at risk. Please make every ride a safe one for you and your family.”
Recent heavy snowfall makes for ideal riding conditions, but police warn not to let enthusiasm cloud riders’ judgement. It has released a list of snowmobile safety tips in partnership with the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC):
| • Abstain from alcohol and drugs • Always stay on the trail • Only ride trails showing as Available (Green) or Limited Availability (Yellow) on the ITG • Know your sled and its capabilities, keep it well-maintained • Stay alert to the trail ahead and aware of your surroundings • Stop on the trail at locations with clear sight-lines in both directions • Check the ITG and weather conditions before your ride • Before leaving home, notify someone where you will be riding and when you expect to return • Always carry an emergency kit, snacks, extra fuel, a tow rope and a communication device. | • Always ride with a companion(s) • Ride in single file on the trails • Ride your side of the trail • Leave plenty of space between you and the sled ahead • Take responsibility for the rider behind you • Be especially vigilant coming into corners or cresting hills • Pass groomers and other riders cautiously • Always stop at crossing roads and take extra caution riding trails on active logging roads • Slow down at night or when visibility is poor, when non-motorized users are on the trail, or when passing through towns or residential areas |
“The safest ride is one you properly plan and prepare for, and where you stick to all the do’s and don’ts of snowmobiling that are meant to keep you and fellow riders safe on the trails,” said OFSC CEO Ryan Eickmeier. “Making smart choices throughout the season, while taking advantage of a vast snowmobile trail network made possible through our outstanding community of volunteers and landowners is your ticket to a safe, enjoyable snowmobile season.”
