As part of Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week, the Ontario Provincial Police along with the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) issued a reminder about risk-free riding.
During a 10-season stretch from 2014-15 to 2023-24, 145 snowmobilers were killed in OPP jurisdictions with excessive speed (driving too fast for conditions), as well as alcohol impairment being the leading cause or a contributing factor in the fatalities. Other factors include driver attention and lack of helmet use.
The OPP reports that close to 40 per cent of the 145 fatalities occurred on frozen lakes and rivers.
Through the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs' Interactive Trail Guide, snowmobilers can get real-time info on OFCS trails.
Police also remind riders that it is against the law to access trails that are unavailable.
Snowmobile Safety Week runs from Feb. 10-17.
