MADISON, Wis. — Nine people have already died in snowmobile crashes in 2023, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
“With the big football weekend coming up, I can’t emphasize enough how important it is for snowmobile operators to be safe, responsible and sober. Impairment of any kind can have tragic consequences,” said DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator Lt. Jacob Holsclaw. “Over the past five years, alcohol was involved in 68% of snowmobile fatalities. As you venture out on your snowmobile, think of your loved ones. Don’t drink and ride.”
The DNR said this loss of life is “tragic.”
“One fatality is one too many. This is not the way the DNR wants to start the new year. We welcome all snowmobilers, resident and out-of-state visitors. We want everyone to enjoy the fun and to share the trails safely,” said Holsclaw in a release from January.
These incidents, according to DNR officials, are a reminder that safety should be a top priority when snowmobiling in the winter.
That’s why the DNR shared several safety tips for those hitting the trail.
- Those operating a snowmobile should never drink or do drugs before driving, as it leads to impairment that can have tragic consequences. Last winter, 70% of the 23 snowmobiling fatalities had alcohol involved, according to the DNR.
- Only operate within your skill level, visibility or type of snowmobile.
- Slow down. When driving a snowmobile, drive at a moderate speed.
- Dressing appropriately for the weather and to drive is also recommended. That means wearing a helmet with goggles or a face shield to prevent injuries from flying debris. You also want to make sure that you don’t have loose ends, which could tangle or get caught in equipment.
- Don’t stray from marked trails. Stay alert for things like fences, tree stumps or stretched wire in the snow.
- Avoid traveling across water when ice thickness or currents are unknown. Changing weather and currents can change the strength of ice and maybe lead to accidents.
- Try not to travel alone as this can be when the most dangerous situations occur. However, if you need to travel alone, make sure you let someone know where you are going.
“We strongly urge snowmobilers to operate within their abilities, keep their speed in check and wait to enjoy adult beverages until they are home,” said Holsclaw.
Wisconsin DNR also offers several safety classes on snowmobiling. Those can be found here.
DNR said conservation wardens as well as local sheriff’s deputies are increasing patrol efforts to encourage safety throughout the state.