Press Release
Snowmobilers are reminded to put safety first and plan ahead before riding the trails this winter.
Snowmobiling continues to be one of the province’s most popular winter activities. With more than 34,000 km of trails to travel, Ontario’s snowmobile routes are among the world’s best.
Make your ride a safe one by following these important safety tips:
•Always drive sober.
Alcohol, illegal drugs, and prescription and some over-the-counter medications will affect your judgment, slow your reaction time, and increase your risk of fatigue and hypothermia.
•Travelling on ice is always risky.
Conditions can change quickly so check beforehand, carry ice picks, and wear a buoyant snowmobile suit in case you break through.
•Only ride on marked, open trails and check conditions with your local snowmobile club before heading out.
•Always carry a survival kit, which should include first aid supplies, a trail map, a compass or GPS unit, waterproof matches, a flashlight, and high-energy food.
•Travel with a friend, and tell someone your destination, route, and when you plan to return.
“Ontario is home to the most extensive network of recreational trails in the world,” said Infrastructure and Transportation minister Bob Chiarelli.
“To help keep Ontario families safe, I encourage all riders to follow these important safety tips,” he added.
“Each winter, almost 90 percent of tragedies occur off-trail so snowmobilers should make the smart choice—the safest place to ride your sled is on open OFSC trails,” said Eric Saunter, safety manager, Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.
Snowmobile Safety Week runs Jan. 15-22.
The majority of snowmobiler fatalities are alcohol-related, with many occurring on frozen lakes or rivers.
Anyone convicted of impaired driving on a snowmobile will lose all driving privileges (including their privilege to drive a car) for a minimum of one year.
Snowmobilers also have responsibilities under the Motorized Snow Vehicles Act, including obtaining permits and licences, using proper equipment, and obeying rules of the road and trail.
