This Family Day long weekend, members of the Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will be out on the trails conducting snow vehicle patrols focussing on education and enforcement.
The following are some important snowmobiling safety tips that will help make your ride a safe and enjoyable one:
Drivers and passengers must always wear a snowmobile helmet that meets the standards approved for motorcycle helmets, with the chin strap secured
Obey speed limits and road/trail signs and always drive within your ability
Reduce your speed when driving at night (don’t out drive your headlights) and watch out for fences, guide wires and other objects that are more difficult to spot out at night. Wear reflective clothing so that you are more visible to others.
Avoid driving on frozen lakes and rivers. If it can’t be avoided, check ice conditions beforehand, wear a floater suit and carry ice picks and make sure they are accessible. No ice is safe ice.
Never travel alone and tell someone of your outing including; your destination, the route, description of your snowmobile and your expected time of return.
Spread out and keep a safe distance from other riders.
Never drive impaired. Alcohol, illegal drugs, even prescription and over the counter drugs can slow your reaction time and affect your ability to make good decisions
Snowmobile operators are obligated to carry a valid driver’s licence, or motorized snow vehicle operator’s licence, the vehicle’s registration permit and proof of insurance. If riding on a prescribed Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club (OFSC) trail, then a valid OFSC trail permit is required to be affixed in the proper fashion to your snowmobile.
Be prepared and pack an emergency/survival kit, spare parts, tow rope and a fully charged mobile device.
Ride safe and keep warm.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
