RCMP and Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia want you to snowmobile safely, Halifax, N.S.

It’s that time of year again. With a large snowfall expected this week, citizens can expect to find snowmobilers on trails throughout Nova Scotia. The RCMP and the Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia are sharing snowmobile safety tips to ensure Nova Scotians are able to enjoy the sport and still arrive home safely.

‘Every winter we are called to respond to collisions where someone has been seriously injured or is killed as a result of unsafe snowmobiling practices,’ says Cst. Tammy Lobb, Nova Scotia RCMP. ‘We are asking people to plan ahead to protect themselves to make their ride a safe and enjoyable one.’

Here are some tips to help keep you safe:
 

  • Always check the weather conditions before you leave.
  • Never ride alone.
  • Where possible, take a cell phone in case of emergency.
  • Have a map and take note of shelters available along the way.
  • Let someone know your plans, where you are going, the route you plan on taking and the time of you expect to return.
  • Always wear protective clothing, including a helmet, gloves and eye protection. Wear layers of clothing to keep warm and dry.
  • When possible, avoid crossing bodies of water. If you are crossing bodies of water, never ride in single file and wear a life jacket over your outer clothing.
  • Ride at a reasonable rate of speed. Know your riding partner’s driving limitations, as well as your own, and operate only at a speed that allows you to remain in total control of your snowmobile.
  • Ride sober. Drinking or doing drugs and operating a snowmobile do not mix. Don’t drink and drive and don’t tolerate others who do.
  • Always be alert. You don’t always know what is coming at you: be ready to react to any situation you may encounter.
  • When venturing into remote areas away from civilization, snowmobilers should take all precautions necessary as depending on where you are, help could be several hours away.

‘We are committed to reinforcing the importance of safe riding through education,’ says Mr. Stan Slack, Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia president. ‘In partnership with the RCMP we are asking people to please ride responsibly, for their safety and those around them.’

For more information, check out the Safe Riders! Snowmobile Safety Awareness Program at http://www.saferiderssafetyawareness.org/

Source: Release

Richmond County RCMP investigate stabbing, Louisdale, N.S.

Dyke Road evacuation order lifted, Grand Desert, N.S.