(via Ottawa Police)
The Ottawa Police Service, Safer Roads Ottawa and Ottawa Fire Services remind snowmobilers of the importance of making smart choices, like riding sober, avoiding lakes and rivers and using established snowmobile trails.
This past weekend, Ottawa Police conducted enforcement on local trails, checking validation, trail permits and enforcing speed limits. A total of 360 snowmobiles were stopped on February 11 and 12th and 25 Provincial Offence Notices were issued.
“Every year there are injuries and impaired driving charges relating to snowmobiling,” said Ottawa Police Traffic Sergeant Eddie Yeoumans. “We want people to have fun, but stay safe. Obey speed limits, stay on the trails and always carry your insurance documents and trail permit with you.”
The Ottawa Police Marine Dive Trail (MDT) Unit and Ottawa Fire Services Water & Ice Rescue Team invite you to look at snowmobile safety tips<http://www.ottawapolice.
Here are some quick tips before you head out:
* Inform others of your destination and estimated arrival time;
* Check your headlights, taillights and brake lights to ensure they are in working order;
* Wear suitable clothing to prevent hypothermia – remember that children are particularly susceptible to the cold;
* Carry first aid and survival kits;
* Have all permits/documents on hand; and
* Plan your route and make sure you have ample fuel for your planned route and extra.
* Always be prepared to stop, especially for wildlife, which moves along trails at night.
The Safer Roads Ottawa Program is a leading community partnership between Ottawa Fire Services, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Public Health and the Public Works Department, and is committed to preventing or eliminating road deaths and serious injuries for all people in the City of Ottawa, through culture change, community engagement, and development of a sustainable safe transportation environment.