International Snowmobile Safety Week 2022: January 15-23
The Ontario Provincial Police has released data that points to a continued disregard for the warnings associated with recurring causes and factors in snowmobile fatalities.
Over the past 10 years, driving too fast for the conditions has been the leading cause of snowmobile deaths. Drugs and alcohol were a factor in almost half of the fatalities, and 40 percent of the deaths occurred on frozen waterways – a grim reminder that traveling on frozen lakes and rivers is consistently unsafe year after year.
With Snowmobile Safety Week kicking off this weekend, the OPP, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, and other valued public safety partners are reminding snowmobilers that making the riding season safe and enjoyable comes down to common sense and smart decisions.
Snowmobiling can be a lot of fun, but it can also lead to fatal incidents on trails and waterways. The OPP would like to remind snowmobile operators that they need to be cautious on trails, lakes and private property. Anyone choosing to operate a snowmobile are reminded to carry the required documentation, use proper safety equipment and operate their snowmobile in a safe manner.
Some safety tips include:
- Carry a valid driver’s license or motorized snow vehicle operator’s license, proof of insurance, proof of snowmobile ownership and have a valid snowmobile trail permit affixed to your sled when on trails.
- Come to a complete stop before entering any roadway and be cautious when crossing roads.
- Obey speed limits and always adjust your speed to the weather and trail conditions.
- Ride SOBER.
- Wear an approved snowmobile helmet.
- Wear appropriate clothing to prevent hypothermia.
- Ensure your cellphone is fully charged.
- Carry a small personal safety kit that includes waterproof matches, pocket knife, compass and whistle.
- Never go out alone and always tell someone your planned destination and your expected time of return.
- Avoid unfamiliar areas at night.
- Regularly inspect your snowmobile to ensure it is in good mechanical condition.
- Use caution on frozen bodies of water and remember that No Ice is Safe Ice.
For more information on snowmobiling and cold water/ice safety please visit:
- Snowmobile safety: ontario.ca/snowmobilesafety
- Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs: ofsc.on.ca
- Cold water and ice safety: lifesavingsociety.com/water-safety/cold-water-and-ice.aspx
