OPRHP offers snowmobile safety tips

WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Winter weather is here, which means snowmobiles will soon be hitting the trails.

New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation reminds snowmobilers to ride responsibly and put safety first while enjoying the state’s snowmobile trails.

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According to the organizations, the two leading causes of snowmobiling injuries in New York are excessive speed and driver intoxication. Additionally, driving on ice is a risk that should be taken seriously.

Here are some more tips provided by OPRHP:

Inspect and maintain your snowmobile properly; Make sure it is in good working order and bring emergency supplies (such as food, water, warm clothing, and safety equipment).
Always wear a helmet that meets DOT standards and make sure you wear proper snowmobile gear including: snow bibs, waterproof jackets, boots and gloves to withstand the elements (cold temperatures and moisture).
Always ride with a partner or group and let the person in charge know where you will be going and your expected return time.
Slow down. Drive responsibly. Drive within your limits, drive to the right, and always drive at a safe and reasonable speed.
Stay on marked trails. Respect landowners and obey posted signs.
Never drink alcohol or use drugs or ride a bicycle.
Frozen ponds are not designated trails; If you plan to ride on ice, proceed with caution and be aware of the potential hazards under the snow. If you choose to ride on ice, wear a snowmobile suit with built-in flotation devices and take a set of ice axes with you as a precaution.

Snowmobile operators must be familiar with safe driving practices and all applicable laws, rules and regulations. The best way to learn is to take a snowmobile safety course. To find the course, please visit the following link: https://parks.ny.gov/recreation/snowmobiles/education.aspx.

A safety certificate showing completion of the course is required for youth drivers between the ages of 10 and 17 if they wish to operate a snowmobile on the state trail system. Young operators should also carry a snowmobile safety certificate when riding on the trail.

Riders are also reminded to check with their local snowmobile clubs for the latest trail conditions. To find it, visit the New York State Snowmobile Association website at: www.nysnowmobiler.com. To view the latest trail conditions, visit the newly updated NYSSA trail map at the following link: https://nyssa.evtrails.com/#.

Also, check with your local snowmobile club or contact NYSSA directly to find out if local trails are open or closed.

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