(WFRV) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says that snowmobile operators should be aware that an increase in law enforcement will be noticeable in the coming Sled Safe Weekends.
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According to a release, the primary message of these weekends is centered on safety, as there have already been six snowmobile deaths in the first month of the year alone, and operators should always wait to consume any alcohol until they’re back home.
DNR conservation wardens will be on patrol at trails and other locations to promote safety during Sled Safe education/enforcement weekends, which run from January 30 to February 1 and February 6 to February 8.
Wardens will be on hand to provide safety tips while watching for operators who are creating hazardous situations for themselves and others, either through possible impairment or other means.
“I can’t stress enough how important it is for snowmobile operators to be safe, responsible and sober,” off-highway vehicle administrator Lieutenant Jacob Holsclaw said. “Impairment of any kind can have tragic consequences.”
Holsclaw says that alcohol is one of the top factors in fatal crashes, and that operators should always ride safely and sober, not just for themselves, but for others, too.
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Some tips are as follows:
- Never be impaired while riding
- Always operate within visibility limits and the snowmobile’s capacity
- Follow similarly to the rules of the road
- Stop and look both ways
- Obey stop signs
- Make sure traffic is clear
- Avoid ice-covered water
- Stay on marked trails
- Slow down
- Ride with others for safety
More information is available on the DNR’s website.
