Thursday, January 12, 2017

Snowmobilers Reminded to Ride Safely

Rail-Trail Plan Could End Snowmobiling Along CorridorNew York State is reminding snowmobilers to ride responsibly and exercise caution.

Everyone operating a snowmobile should be familiar with safe riding practices and all applicable laws, rules and regulations. The best way to learn is by taking a snowmobile safety course. To find a course, click here.  A safety certificate is required for youth between ages 10 and 18.

Before heading out, riders are reminded to check trail conditions with local snowmobile clubs. To find a club, visit the New York State Snowmobile Association (NYSSA) website. Those who join a snowmobile club receive a discounted registration fee and help support the snowmobile trail system.

Top safety recommendations include:

– Check over your snowmobile; make sure it is in good working order and carry emergency supplies.

– Always wear a helmet and make sure you wear the proper snowmobile gear including bibs, jackets, boots and gloves.

– Always ride with at least one other person.

– Ride responsibly. Ride within your ability, ride to the right and operate at a safe and prudent speed at all times. Respect landowners, obey posted signs and stay on the marked trail.

– Frozen bodies of water are not designated trails; if you plan to ride on ice, proceed with caution and be aware of potential hazards under the snow.

– Never drink alcohol or use drugs and ride.

A map of snowmobile trails in the Adirondack Park can be found here.

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) oversees the development, maintenance and oversight of a statewide snowmobile program, which features approximately 10,500 miles of state-designated snowmobile trails. For more information on snowmobiling in New York, click here.

Photo by Nancie Battaglia.

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Stories under the Almanack's Editorial Staff byline come from press releases and other notices.

Send news updates and story ideas to Alamanck Editor Melissa Hart at editor@adirondackalmanack.com.




2 Responses

  1. Scott says:

    The imprudent snowmobile speed seems common.

    Zero alcohol ? Our culture celebrates just about every activity with food and alcohol so I bet snowmobilers are no different.

  2. Brian j Doyle says:

    Zero tolerance for alcohol and snowmobileing!

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