Stay Safe During Snowmobile Safety Awareness Week
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/
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