With a blanket of snow covering Huron County — and a forecast of cold temperatures — Huron County OPP are reminding snowmobilers about safety on the trail.
Officers completed two days of snowmobile patrols last weekend, and say riders overwhelmingly complied with laws.
269 riders were checked with seven warnings handed out, while one operator was charged with failing to wear a helmet.
If you are heading onto the snowmobile trail, OPP remind you to:
- Obey speed limits and road/trail signs and always drive within your ability. Reduce your speed when driving at night and watch out for fences, guide wires and other objects that are more difficult to spot at night.
- Avoid driving on frozen lakes and rivers. If it can’t be avoided, check ice conditions beforehand. Wear a buoyant snowmobile suit. Carry ice picks and make sure they are accessible.
- Tell someone about your outing; including where you are going, the route, description of your snowmobile and your expected time of return.
- Never travel alone, always with a friend. Always be prepared for the unexpected. Carry a charged cell phone if available.
- Never drive impaired. Alcohol, illegal drugs, even prescription and some over-the-counter drugs can slow your reaction time and affect your ability to make good decisions.
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet.