Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are reminding snowmobile enthusiasts that a little prevention goes a long way to safe riding this season.
Monday is the start of Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week, and the OPP is teaming up with the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) to ensure people are riding safely across the province.
The OPP said that since the winter of 2014-2015, 145 snowmobilers lost their lives in areas patrolled by the service.
"Every year, snowmobilers take unnecessary risks on frozen waterways," read a release from the OPP. "With close to 40 per cent of the 145 fatalities occurring on frozen lakes and rivers, these locations account for the highest number of snowmobile deaths."
Factors in snowmobile incidents also included impairment by alcohol or drugs, speeding, driving too fast for conditions, not paying attention, and not wearing a helmet.
The OFSC has complete information on where snowmobilers can ride legally and safely, what permits and licences they may need, and safety tips, on its official website.
