Ahead of Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week, the Essex County OPP are reminding snowmobilers that making each ride risk-free gives them their best chance of safely making it through the season.
Over 10 snowmobile seasons, 145 snowmobilers have lost their lives in OPP jurisdictions. The top three causes of fatal snowmobile collisions are speeding, impaired driving and carelessness.
Every year, snowmobilers take unnecessary risks on frozen waterways. With close to 40 per cent of the 145 fatalities occurring on frozen lakes and rivers, these locations account for the highest number of snowmobile deaths.
Riders are reminded that frozen lakes and rivers carry an inherent degree of uncertainty about how safe they are and the only way to ensure one’s safety is to avoid frozen waterways altogether.
With Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week running from February 9 to 16, 2026, riders are encouraged to get up to date on what they need to do to keep themselves, their passengers and fellow riders safe throughout the season.
Essex County OPP urges snowmobilers to adhere to the following key safety guidelines this season:
- Drive Sober: Never operate a snowmobile under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trails, which are the safest routes. Riders can access real-time trail status updates via the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide (ITG) to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Be Cautious on Frozen Waterways: Always treat frozen bodies of water as unsafe.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use an approved helmet and appropriate clothing to stay safe and warm.
- Carry a Safety Kit: Equip yourself with essential items such as waterproof matches, a pocketknife, a compass, a whistle, ice picks, and a first aid kit.
- Observe Speed Limits: Abide by posted speed limits and local municipal by-laws.
- Plan Your Route: Inform someone of your planned route and keep your cell phone fully charged in case of emergency.
- Ensure Proper Documentation: Carry all required permits and documentation to operate your snowmobile legally.
For more information about the OFSC and snowmobile safety, visit: https://www.ofsc.on.ca/
Riders should note that, in addition to road and marine patrol, the OPP conducts patrols by snowmobile and off-road vehicle throughout the province. OPP Snowmobile, ATV and Vessel Enforcement (S.A.V.E.) Teams are mobile, four-season teams that target high-risk operator behaviours on trails and waterways, as part of their efforts to reduce the risk of collisions, fatalities and injuries. Mandatory Alcohol Screening authorizes officers to demand a breath test from snowmobile operators without requiring suspicion that they have consumed alcohol.
The OPP can be contacted at anytime at 1-888-310-1122 or if an emergency at 9-1-1. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous online tip at www.catchcrooks.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
