Snowmobile Safety Tips

Durham Region is home to some of the greatest snowmobile trails in southern Ontario. If you are heading out on your snowmobile this weekend please stay safe!

Here are some snowmobile safety tips to keep the trails safe for everyone.

1. Obey the speed limits
2. Do not drive impaired. It is against the law to drive a snowmobile when you are impaired by alcohol or drugs. Impaired sledding carries the same penalties as impaired driving. Your driver’s license will be suspended and your snowmobile impounded.

3. Always know your route and plan ahead – fuel, rest stops, end points.
4. Take a snowmobile safety course.
5. Tell someone – always let someone know when you’re going, where you’re going and when you plan on coming back. We can’t come find you if we don’t know you’re missing.
6. Wear appropriate clothes and protective gear. Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, not only to keep you warm but to also protect your head from injury.
7. Inspect your snowmobile before your ride. Make sure your snowmobile is running properly before heading out on the trail. Having your owner’s manual handy on your ride is a good idea for extra safety.

8. Ride with a friend or in a group.
9. Carry a first-aid kit, emergency kit and repair kit.
10. Stay on the trail.
11. .Riding on lakes - If riding over frozen waterways check ice conditions ahead of time and have ice water rescue equipment with you and readily available – ice picks, floater coats, waterproof matches.