Thursday, January 29, 2004

SNOWMOBILE DEATHS CAN BE PREVENTED

(North Bay, ON)
Alcohol, speed and poor visibility are common factors in snowmobile crashes. Drowning is a leading cause of death, and most of the deaths occur off-trail.

Deaths are easily prevented by riding sober, staying on the trails, and keeping to the posted speed limits. Avoid heading out during snowstorms and on unknown territory. Be aware that terrain on lakes can change daily by the effects of pressure cracks, so don’t over drive your headlights or the falling snow.

Stay off of lakes and rivers that usually flow year round.
Operating a snowmobile while impaired is a criminal offence. Anyone found riding while impaired will lose their drivers licence for a minimum of 90 days and conviction will bring high fines, a criminal record, a loss of driving privileges and, for subsequent convictions, imprisonment. All riders, including passengers need to have a DOT or Snell approved helmet that is worn properly and securely.
Make sure that you leave an itinerary and route with someone before you head out, so if your snow machine breaks down or you become lost, search and rescue teams have a starting point.

Pack high-energy foods, warm clothing and matches in the event you are stranded for any length of time.
Carrying a cell phone or GPS has proven to speed up the time for rescuers to reach stranded snowmobilers.