West Parry Sound OPP is reminding snowmobilers to ride safely for the rest of the winter season.
This year already, the region has seen a number of serious injuries due to crashes involving snowmobiles, including a fatality in the Archipelago.
West Parry Sound OPP Constable Kyle Ney says many of these collisions can be avoided.
Speeding was the cause of 46 percent of all snowmobile deaths in Ontario in 2017 with males between 25 and 65 years of age accounting for 76 percent of all snowmobile fatalities.
Constable Ney says despite record numbers last year, people continue to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while riding their sleds.
Many the area’s crashes have involved snowmobiles going through the ice, prompting Ney to remind riders to mind their surroundings, be familiar with the area, and take the necessary precautions before starting a trip.
Because of recent weather conditions, most of the trails in the Parry Sound region are closed.
For more information on area trails, visit the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs’ website.
