2023-Jan-16
OPP and OFSC Reveal Snowmobilers' Greatest Enemy
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and its Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) partners are cautioning snowmobilers about the increased risks posed by a milder winter and reminding them of the common sense approach needed to avoid a tragic outcome to their riding season.
The late onset of cold temperatures and lack of snow in many parts of Ontario have set a particularly dangerous stage for snowmobilers, especially those who are considering riding on frozen waterways. Close to 40 per cent of OPP-investigated snowmobile fatalities have occurred on frozen lakes and rivers over the past 10 years. Snowmobilers are therefore urged to avoid all frozen waterways at all times!
The majority of OFSC trails are currently unavailable and snowmobilers need to stay off all OFSC trails except those that are open. Check for trail status updates on the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide when planning your ride.
Driving too fast for the conditions and alcohol/drug-impairment are the leading factors in snowmobile fatalities. Snowmobilers are reminded that the conscious choice to include these (and other) risky behaviours on their ride make snowmobilers their own worst enemy when tragedy strikes.
With Snowmobile Safety Week (January 14 – 22, 2023) kicking off across the province, make every ride a safe one so that you can enjoy the world-class snowmobiling Ontario has to offer and, more importantly, so that you can get home safely to your family!
GBA has more snowmobile safety tips here and the OFSC website has up-to-the-minute trail information here.