Riding snowmobiles can be a fun experience, but similar to operating an automobile, riders should not operate their machines while impaired by drugs, marijuana or alcohol.
The Canadian and Saskatchewan chapters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) have teamed up with the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association for an important safety campaign that coincides with International Snowmobile Safety Week from Jan. 18 to 26. All three organizations want riders to enjoy Saskatchewan’s beautiful trails in a sober state of mind.
Snowmobiling is a great winter activity, and in Saskatchewan, the long winters attract a lot of people to take part — but there’s one hard truth: drinking or consuming cannabis and riding just don’t mix, the organizations said in a news release.
“Impaired driving of a snowmobile is the same as impaired driving in a car with the same charges and sanctions” said Tracy Crawford, MADD Canada regional manager. “Have a great time riding the trails but leave the alcohol and cannabis at home.”
If you see someone who might be impaired riding while riding, get all the information and make a report by calling 911. Everyone can work together to keep trails safe for all.
“The Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association would like to thank MADD Canada and MADD Saskatchewan Chapters for the opportunity to partner with them to promote a Safe and Sober Trail System,” said the SSA’s Jennifer Schneider
“Safety is a very important message and initiative that our association and snowmobile clubs promote year round. We encourage snowmobilers across the province to never drink and ride and remind everyone that riding high is a DUI.”
Ten safety tips to make snowmobiling a great experience are:
- Do not use alcohol or drugs before or during snowmobiling;
- Operate at safe and reasonable speeds, driving within the limits of the machine and your ability;
- Stay on the trails and in areas where snowmobiling is permitted;
- Use extra caution when riding during the evening or night, ensuring your machine has working lights;
- Always wear a safety certified helmet and proper layered clothing;
- Inform someone where you are going and when you plan to return;
- Carry emergency supplies and learn first aid and survival skills;
- Maintain and get to know your snowmobile;
- Educate yourself on snowmobiling and take a snowmobile safety online course;
- Leave tracks, not trash. If you had space to bring it in, then respect nature by carrying it out, too.
Enjoy the many benefits that snowmobiling has to offer in Saskatchewan, the news release added, and remember to ride safe and ride sober.
