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2021 Snowmobile Safety Tips & COVID practises before hitting the trails.

Jan. 12 2021 Announcements By Jay Longo

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Snowmobiles are used commonly throughout the winter season in the KW area, while they may be used for leisure or work, there are many safety precautions and tips you can take before hitting the trails. Regardless if it's your first snow ride or 100th, these 7 safety tips provided by Avivia.ca (Link Below) are worth reviewing:


  1. Know the law: Make sure you are aware of the laws regarding snowmobile use. Make sure your registration and insurance papers are in order before riding.
  2. Inspect before riding: Always thoroughly check your machine out before you ride. Check the engine, the oil, and make sure you have enough gas to reach your destination. Make sure everything is in working order, and make sure you have an emergency kit. Emergency kits are not only handy if you need to make a quick repair, but they can also be a lifesaver.
  3. Don’t drink and drive: Drinking and operating a snowmobile has the same repercussions as if you were to drink and drive in a car. Never drink and operate any form of vehicle.
  4. Be aware of your surroundings: Driving a snowmobile safely requires concentration. Always focus on the path ahead and your surrounds. All it takes it is to be distracted for a second and you could crash.
  5. Take lessons: Driving a snowmobile is not as easy as it looks. If you have never driven a snowmobile before or if you have not been on one for an extended period of time, consider taking a lesson or two to brush up on your skills and knowledge.
  6. Dress for the weather conditions: Make sure you have the right clothing on for the weather conditions. Remember that you will be exposed to the weather at all times and you need to properly protect your body from the cold.
  7. Tell people where you are going: Always tell another person where you plan on riding before departing. This way if you don’t come back as scheduled, they will know where to start looking.

All these tips are great to review every time before you hit the trails this season


Along with the above tips, this is the first season with new restrictions and safety guideline revolving around the COVID-19 Virus. Riders are eager to get out, but it is a good idea to prepare your route beforehand as many are restricted and closed due to lockdowns.

Here is a link to an interactive map provided by Ride Ontario that includes an interactive trail guide displaying the trail status https://ofsc.evtrails.com/#

With the new restrictions and safety guidelines around it is very important to check with the public health unit as the pandemic constantly evolves. As well, please remember to not ride any trails if:

• You have tested positive for COVID-19 and/or not feeling well. Stay home until you have fully recovered. Same goes if you live in the same household as someone who has COVID-19 or is showing symptoms of COVID- 19.

• You have just returned from travel outside of Canada. You will self-isolate for a minimum of 14 days before riding OFSC trails.


Stay safe and hit the trails!