State issued reminders about snowmobile safety

The Daily Star, Oneonta, N.Y.
·2 min read

Dec. 27—The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is reminding snowmobilers to ride responsibly.

Historically, the two leading causes of snowmobiler injury in New York are excessive speed and operator intoxication, according to a OPRHP media release. Additionally, riding on ice "is a risk that should be taken seriously."

Top OPRHP safety recommendations include:

—Inspect and properly maintain your snowmobile; make sure it is in good working order and carry emergency supplies;

—Always wear a helmet with DOT-certified standards and make sure you wear appropriate snowmobile gear including bibs, jackets, boots, and gloves to withstand the elements (cold temperatures and moisture);

—Always ride with a buddy or group and tell a responsible person where you will be riding and your expected return time;

—Slow down and ride responsibly. Ride within your ability, ride to the right and always operate at a safe and prudent speed;

—Stay on marked trails. Respect landowners and obey posted signs;

—Never drink alcohol or use drugs and ride;

—Frozen bodies of water are not designated trails; if you plan to ride on ice, proceed with caution and be aware of potential hazards under the snow. If you choose to ride on ice, wear a snowmobile suit with flotation built in and carry a set of ice picks as a precaution.

Everyone operating a snowmobile should be familiar with safe riding practices and all applicable laws, rules, and regulations. The best way to learn is by taking a snowmobile safety course, the release said. To find a course, please visit https://parks.ny.gov/recreation/snowmobiles/education.aspx. A safety certificate is required for youth operators between ages 10 and 17 if they want to ride solo on a New York state trail.

Before heading out, riders are reminded to check the latest trail conditions with local snowmobile clubs. To find a club, visit the New York State Snowmobile Association website at www.nysnowmobiler.com.

Also review the latest trail conditions, visit NYSSA's trail map at https://webapps2.cgis-solutions.com/nysnowmobile/. Joining a snowmobile club helps support snowmobiling, the release said. Club members receive a discounted registration fee and help support the clubs that maintain the snowmobile trail system. Check with a local snowmobile club or contact NYSSA directly to learn whether local trails are opened or closed.

OPRHP oversees the development, maintenance, and oversight of a statewide snowmobile program, which features about 10,500 miles of state-designated snowmobile trails. For more information on snowmobiling in New York, visit https://parks.ny.gov/recreation/snowmobiles/.