With snowmobile riding season underway, the Saskatchewan Safety Council and SGI wants everyone to return home safely this season.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) says risky behaviour, speed, alcohol and unfamiliarity with the terrain or the machine are major contributing factors for snowmobile deaths and injuries in the province.
According to the Saskatchewan Safety Council, alcohol is the cause of almost 70 per cent of all snowmobile incidents.
With freezing and thawing, thin ice is a major risk for snowmobilers. Riders should be particularly aware of freshly fallen snow which can hide thin ice and cause ditches, rocks, branches, drainage pipes and depressions to be hidden.
If riders are unsure of ice conditions they can call their local environment ministry office.
Peter Huebner, chief snowmobile instructor at the Saskatchewan Safety Council, recommends all riders become familiar with the terrain early in the season to prevent needless accidents from happening.
“With caution and foresight, you can eliminate a good 9 out of 10 of them,” said Huebner.
According to the Snowmobile Act, all snowmobile operators and passengers must wear a safety certified helmet. Helmets should be fit comfortably, be secured properly and if a full-face shield is not available, goggles must be worn.
Protective goggles with tinted grey or green lenses are recommended for bright days, while amber or yellow lenses are good for overcast or late afternoon riding.
Lenses reveal dangerous depressions in the snow and protect the eyes from branches and other objects.
