Don’t Make Your Last Ride of the Season the Last Ride of Your Life
FROM/DE: Highway Safety Division DATE: March 9, 2011
OPP & OFSC SAY MARCH SNOWMOBILE FATALITIES ARE PREVENTABLE
ORILLIA, ON – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) are concerned about an increase in fatal snowmobile incidents this March. While the number of deaths investigated by the OPP has seen an overall decline to date this season, five tragedies in the past two weeks indicate that sledders are not adjusting their riding habits to the late season conditions.
The causes of these tragic deaths are common, predictable and preventable given that alcohol or excessive speed has played a direct role in nearly every fatal incident investigated by police.
According to the OPP and the OFSC, sledding alcohol-free, reducing speed to drive within one’s ability and to spring conditions, riding with extra care and control, and always wearing a helmet are all responsible choices that help avoid injury and death.
Other responsible choices for snowmobilers – especially during the spring include avoiding closed OFSC trails and staying away from open water and ice that weakens quickly with milder weather and the start of spring run-off.
“The people who have died in snowmobile-related incidents had a measure of control over the circumstances that led to their senseless deaths. Had they made different choices, these tragedies would have been prevented.” – Larry Beechey, OPP Deputy Commissioner for Traffic Safety.
“We are seeking the help of all snowmobilers to support our safety messages because we all have a role to play in ensuring the safety of everyone who enjoys this winter activity. ” – Chief Superintendent Bill Grodzinski, Divisional Commander of the OPP Highway Safety Division.
“Do your part to keep everyone safe while snowmobiling this spring. Positive peer pressure is effective and so does calling your local police service to report operators who continue to make poor decisions while riding.” – Sergeant Michael Price, Off-Road Safety Coordinator, Highway Safety Division.
The OPP is committed to saving lives on Ontario’s highways, trails and waterways through the reduction of preventable injury and death. Initiatives are developed and delivered through the Provincial Traffic Safety Program. Visit opp.ca for more information.
The OFSC is committed to proactive leadership in promoting safe, responsible riding, on and off Ontario snowmobile trails, by building safer snowmobiling knowledge, attitudes and behaviours through rider education, safety legislation development and enforcement. For more information, visit ofsc.on.ca.
