2024-Jan-19
Safe Snowmobiling Means Not Going Out Until It Is Safe!
OFSC Trail map – Jan 19, 2024
The Ontario Provincial Police are reminding snowmobilers that the majority of Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trails are still not open at this time due to the late onset of cold temperatures this winter. They are also urging snowmobilers to stay off frozen waterways, which mild temperatures have made particularly unpredictable and unsafe throughout the province.
Snowmobile Fatalities by the Numbers
In the past 10 years, 158 snowmobilers did not make it home to their families in what were almost all preventable riding incidents.
The common factors in snowmobile fatalities included:
- driving too fast for the conditions
- alcohol/drugs (41% of fatalities)
- riding on unsafe frozen waterways (36% of fatalities)
“Safe and responsible snowmobiling means not going out if there is any doubt about whether it is safe to do so,” said Rohan Thompson, deputy commissioner, OPP traffic safety and operational support.
“This cannot be overstated where frozen waterways are involved, which are never guaranteed to be 100 per cent safe. Making smart decisions before and during your ride, such as always riding sober and drug-free, is what will get you home to your family.”
Check for trail status updates on the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide when planning your ride and stay off all OFSC trails except those that are open.
GBA has more tips for your snowmobiling trips here.