With snow expected to hit the Brainerd Lakes Area later tonight, snowmobile riders are eager to get back on the trails. This week – Jan. 19-27 – is Snowmobile Safety Awareness Week, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds snowmobilers of the importance of safe and responsible riding.

“Snowmobiling is fun and exciting – and is a great source of physical activity – but every time they fire up the engine snowmobilers should make safety their priority,” said Bruce Lawrence, recreational vehicle coordinator for DNR’s Enforcement Division. “By keeping a clear head and using common sense, snowmobile riders can go a long way toward ensuring a safe ride.”

Here are some key safety points to keep in mind:

• Don’t drink and ride – alcohol and snowmobiling are a bad combination.
• Wear a helmet and proper clothing.
• Drive slower at night and be prepared for the unexpected.
• Check local trail and ice conditions.
• Cross with care.
• Avoid riding alone.
• Ride safe, stay on the trail and respect private property.
• Smart riders are safe riders – take a snowmobile safety training course.

To legally operate a snowmobile in Minnesota, residents born after Dec. 31, 1976 must have a valid snowmobile safety certificate. Options for classroom and online safety courses can be found at mndnr.gov/safety/vehicle/snowmobile/index.html. For additional safety tips, see mndnr.gov/snowmobiling/safety.html.

By — Anthony Scott