As Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week approaches, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) are urging snowmobilers to make safety their top priority. Ensuring each ride is risk-free is key to having a safe and enjoyable season on the trails.
Over the past decade, OPP data has shown that the same risky driving behaviors continue to contribute to snowmobile fatalities year after year. From 2014 to 2024, 145 snowmobilers lost their lives in OPP jurisdictions. Key factors leading to these fatalities include excessive speed, especially when riding too fast for the conditions, alcohol impairment, driver inattention, and failure to wear helmets.
One of the most dangerous areas for snowmobilers is frozen waterways. Nearly 40 percent of the fatalities occurred on frozen lakes and rivers, making these areas the highest risk locations for accidents. The OPP and OFSC are reminding riders that frozen waterways are unpredictable, and the safest option is to avoid them altogether.
The OFSC, through its hardworking snowmobile clubs, offers an extensive network of trails for snowmobilers to enjoy. To help riders stay informed about trail conditions, the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide (ITG) provides real-time updates on trail status. Snowmobilers are reminded that it is illegal to ride on trails that are unavailable, which are marked in red on the ITG.
Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week will run from February 10 to 17. This week serves as a reminder for riders to stay updated on safety tips and regulations to protect themselves, their passengers, and fellow snowmobilers throughout the season.
For more information on snowmobile safety, visit the OFSC website: www.ofsc.on.ca/safety.
(Written by: Emma Butler)