MOTORIZED SNOW VEHICLE SAFETY
(BANCROFT, ON) – Officers from the Bancroft Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), wish to remind all snowmobilers that will be enjoying the trails in the Bancroft Detachment area to ride safe and sober this season.
Bancroft OPP Officers, alongside the OPP’s Snow Vehicle, All Terrain Vehicle and Vessel Enforcement Unit (S.A.V.E.) will be patrolling the trails and roadways throughout the Detachment area. Some important safety tips to consider are as follows:
Drivers and passengers must always wear approved snowmobile helmets that are firmly secure under the chin.
Obey speed limits and road/trail signs and always drive within your own ability.
Reduce your speed when driving at night and watch for fences, guide wires and other objects that are more difficult to spot at night.
Whenever you see other drivers headed you way, slow down, pull to the right and slowly pass.
Wear reflective clothing so you are more visible to others.
Avoid driving on lakes and rivers. If it can’t be avoided, check ice conditions before you cross or enter onto the ice.
Wear a floater suit and carry ice picks and make sure they are accessible. Remember no ice is safe ice and conditions can change quickly with changing weather.
Never travel alone and tell someone your travel plans including: your destination, the route, description of your snowmobile and your expected time of return.
Never drive impaired. Alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medication, over the counter drugs, or a combination can dramatically slow your reaction time and affect your ability to operate a snowmobile and make good decisions.
A valid driver’s licence or motorized snow vehicle operator’s licence, the vehicle’s registration permit and proof of insurance are required documents that the driver must produce upon demand. If riding on an Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club (OFSC) trail, a valid OFSC trail permit is required to be affixed to your snowmobile.
Lastly, be safe and consider carrying supplies in a backpack or on the snowmobile. Supplies include spare parts, rope, cellphone battery pack, matches, lighters, paper, water and snacks.
Keep your cellphone charged and close to your body to keep it warm so the battery doesn’t drain in case you need it.
