Police warn snowmobilers after recent deaths

OPP NEWS RELEASE

************************ OPP urge operators to exercise caution

NORTH BAY - (January 9) - Recent snowmobiling deaths are tragic reason for police to urge operators to reduce speed when aboard a sled.

The sudden impact of the high-speed collisions and the possibility of open water incidents leave riders little in the way of a second chance.

Speed and alcohol most often prove to be a deadly mix. Last year in the Northeast Region, eight people were killed in motorized snow vehicle incidents.

There is still a full season of riding left and the OPP will continue to make trail safety a priority.

From Wawa to Kapuskasing through to North Bay, Mattawa and Burks Falls – from Parry Sound, Sudbury and Manitoulin - along the North Shore to the Sault – the OPP will be working hard to curb the snowmobile collision death toll.

“Riding responsibly is a personal choice that must be made every time someone starts up their machine,” states Inspector Garry MacPherson, unit commander – highway safety division – North East Region. “Snowmobile operators must use common sense, exercise caution and slow down. It could be a life or death decision.”

Sled safety is in the hands of the operator. Slow down and see obstacles hidden by the snow - trees and branches on the trail - slow grooming equipment – wildlife and most important, oncoming sleds and other trail users.

Please, think safety on the trails this weekend!

Public education is part of the solution.

For more information on snowmobile safety, contact your local OPP detachment or the North East Region S.A.V.E. Team at 1-888-310-1122.

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