After several years of poor conditions, snowmobilers are finally getting a chance to really hit the trails this winter season with all the fresh snow on the ground.
And that means area OPP snowmobile operators have been out on daily patrols since the trail system opened at the end of 2013.
Const. Scott Mead and Const. Gentry Wilson are two of Huron County OPP’s trained snowmobile operators who have completed over 2,000 kilometres of patrols in Huron County since the season started.
Mead explained in a statement “The conditions have been absolutely perfect this year."
The trails are part of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club (OFSC) District 9 trail system and are patrolled almost daily, at various times of day and night, with the help of the OFSC Trail Warden patrols.
Officers are responsible for enforcing the various regulations and laws under the Criminal Code, Motorized Snow Vehicle Act, Trespass to Property Act, Liquor Licence Act and Municipal By-Laws.
Riders are reminded that penalties for impaired driving on a snowmobile are the same as those on the highway.
OPP also assist in locating lost snowmobilers, and Mead said in a statement that riders should remember to “Take a map with you, know where you are at all times and don’t forget to take a charged cell phone with you.”
Wilson also reminds snowmobile enthusiasts to know their machines, how to fix some basic problems and have essential supplies.
Some basic items include: a charged cell phone, extra oil, an extra spark plug, extra drive belts, tow rope, a winter survival kit consisting of a first aid kit, ice picks, waterproof matches with fire starter, a knife or multi-tool, energy bars, water and blankets.
For further information on safe snowmobiling, where to ride and map apps you can visit the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs at www.ofsc.on.ca
