Provincial police are urging snowmobile users to play it safe.
Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week runs from February 9 to 16, with a focus on safety for drivers and passengers.
Provincial Police say 145 snowmobilers have lost their lives in OPP jurisdictions over the last 10 winters, with speeding, impaired driving, and carelessness listed as the top three causes of fatal crashes.
Authorities say 40% of fatal crashes in the last decade occurred on frozen lakes and rivers, accounting for the highest number of snowmobile-related deaths.
Drivers are encouraged to never operate a machine under the influence of alcohol or drugs; stay on designated trails; wear protective gear at all times to stay safe and warm; and always carry a safety kit with waterproof matches, a pocketknife, compass, ice picks, and a first aid kit.
For more on the snowmobile safety and the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, visit https://www.ofsc.on.ca/safety/.
