Snowmobile safety week is getting underway and area police want enthusiasts to make every ride a safe one.
On top of riding sober, the North Bay Police Service says to check the weather before you go, remember that ‘no ice is safe ice’ and always wear a helmet.
They also say use permitted trails and roadways, follow the speed limit and if venturing out alone, always tell someone your route and when you’ll be back.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reports over the past 10 years, driving too fast for the conditions has been the leading cause of OPP-investigated snowmobile deaths.
They say alcohol/drugs were a factor in almost half of the fatalities while 40 percent of the deaths occurred on frozen waterways.
Police, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) and other public safety partners are reminding snowmobilers that making the riding season safe and enjoyable comes down to common sense and smart decisions.
International Snowmobile Safety Week runs from Jan. 15 to 23.
