OPP sees spike in snowmobile deaths

By Martin Allen

BELLEVILLE – OPP are worried about a rise in snowmobile fatalities this year.

There have been 13 fatalities so far this winter from snowmobile accidents; compared to eight deaths last year over the same period.

Brad Blair, OPP deputy commissioner, attributes the rise in deaths to more than chance.

“The vast majority of these incidents are not random accidents that can happen to just any snowmobiler,” he says.  “Somewhere along the way, a risk was taken, or an error in judgment was made. Sadly, tragedies occurred at an alarming rate last week, and the only way to prevent them is for every snowmobiler to eliminate all forms of risk when riding,” he said.

Lisa Stackhouse, manager of partnership development at the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, agrees.

“As with all recreational activities, there are always risks,” she says. “These latest incidents serve as tragic reminders that making smart choices while snowmobiling helps ensure that your journey will be as safe as it is enjoyable.”

She shares some tips drivers can use to stay safe.

“Factors common in many, if not all snowmobile accidents, are excessive speed, operator intention and failure to share the trail by keeping to the right,” she explains. “Snowmobiling occurs in an unpredictable wilderness where each snowmobile operator is solely responsible for the care and control of their own snowmobile.”

Stackhouse also recommends adjusting your speed to adapt to changing conditions.