January 13, 2000
(Government Services and Lands)

The following is being distributed at the request of the Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation:

Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting sport enjoyed by over four million people all across Canada and the United States. The sport is a safe and enjoyable form of recreation if done properly and with respect. Newfoundland and Labrador has the dubious distinction of having one of the highest snowmobile fatality rates in the country. To combat this problem the NLSF and its member clubs are trying to heighten the profile of snowmobile safety in a number of ways including participating in International Snowmobile Safety Week (January 16-22).

The leading cause of snowmobiling fatalities in our province is drowning and the leading factor in all snowmobile fatalities is alcohol. Sixty-nine per cent of all snowmobile fatalities involve alcohol. This statistic is staggering and the Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation urges all snowmobilers to check all ice before crossing and not under any circumstances to drink and ride.

To help make snowmobiling safer in our province the Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation and participating snowmobile clubs will be hosting a number of events in observance of International Snowmobile Safety Week. These include snowmobile safety courses, safety seminars, safety clinics, and there will be club sponsored safe rides. There will also be displays at various locations.

Interested safe snowmobilers are strongly encouraged to contact their local club to participate.

Even this early in the season, there have been several drownings and several serious accidents and fatalities. Snowmobile fatalities are almost always preventable if safe practices are applied.

All snowmobilers are encouraged to adhere to a few simple safety tips: never consume alcohol or drugs before or during a ride; do not ride beyond your abilities; always wear a helmet; become familiar with the terrain you are traveling over including bodies of water; never ride alone; and use extra caution at night; to name a few.

With the introduction of the groomed trail system, there are a few new safety tips and they include: observe and obey all posted signage including speed limiting signs and stop signs (these signs must not be tampered with as they are there for your protection); use your hand signals; be extra cautious around the grooming equipment; make eye contact with the operator before passing; and keep to the right on the trails at all times.

Ernie McLean, Minister of Government Services and Lands, today commended the NLSF on its efforts. "I am delighted that the Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation is so active in promoting snowmobile safety. Their efforts during International Snowmobile Safety Week and throughout the year will result in a safer and more enjoyable snowmobiling experience for everyone."

Media contact: Craig Giles, Provincial Snowmobile Safety Co-ordinator, (709) 944-7155.

Newfoundland and Labrador Snowmobile Federation

Deer Lake, P.O. Box 1389
A0K 2E0
Ph: (709) 635-4395
Fax/VoiceMail: (709) 635-4396

Safe Snowmobiling Tips

Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during a ride
Become familiar with the snowmobile you ride
Operate at safe and reasonable speeds and within your own abilities and experience
Avoid traveling on unfamiliar frozen bodies of water
Use extreme caution at night
Keep your snowmobile properly maintained, inspect it regularly and learn to do basic repairs on your own.
Reduce speed on unfamiliar territory
Check the weather forecast before you leave
Always wear an approved helmet and suitable clothing
Never ride alone, and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return
Carry emergency supplies and learn basic survival skills and keep the necessary extras on your snowmobile at all times. (belts, plugs, bulbs, tool kit, etc.)
Stay on the right side of the trail
Use extra caution when crossing roadways and railways
Wear flotation type devices or clothing
Never ride on railway tracks
Never ride alone
Never leave children unsupervised on "kiddie snowmobiles"
Take a snowmobile safety course

2000 01 13                                                         11:15 p.m.