Attention snowmobile enthusiasts.
January is Snowmobile Safety and Education Month and Sault Police are taking the opportunity to remind riders to use caution when enjoying their snow machines.
“Snowmobiling has proven to be one of the more dangerous winter sports,” says Traffic Sergeant Joe Poderys in a news release issued today, “but snowmobile education and safety precautions can help you to enjoy the trails legally and with a lesser risk of injury or death.”
Mild weather means rivers, streams and lakes may not have sufficient ice on which to operate snowmobiles safely. Traditional trails used by outdoor enthusiasts may not be in the condition operators would normally see at this time of year.
Throughout the month of January, Sault Police will be posting content relating to snowmobiling legislation and safety recommendations on their social media platforms.
Legal considerations for riders include:
- age,
- where snowmobiles can be operated on roadways,
- wearing a helmet,
- speed limits,
- impaired driving, and
- having a valid driver’s licence or motorized snow vehicle operator’s licence (MSVOL), insurance, and snowmobile registration permit.
Safety considerations include:
- preparedness,
- regular inspections,
- weather,
- gear,
- impaired driving,
- speed,
- hand signals, and
- taking a snowmobile safety course.
To learn more, follow @SaultPolice on social media throughout January, read the snowmobile by-law here, or click here.