Safety First on Snowmobile Trails
NYSSA reminds snowmobilers that January 15 - 21 is International Snowmobile Safety Week

PINE BUSH, NY – During International Snowmobile Safety Week, riders are reminded of safety tips to ensure a fun and safe 2012 season.  The International Snowmobile Association, consisting of all four snowmobile manufacturers, created a snowmobiling program titled “Safe Riders!  You Make Snowmobiling Safe” for International Snowmobile Safety Week.  Local Clubs are encouraged to hold safety courses, clinics and seminars

“We remind snowmobilers to take extra caution in the beginning of the season with low snow depths in many parts of the state, ” said Dominic Jacangelo, Executive Director of NYSSA.   “While the number of accidents continues to decrease, inexperience and excess speed are major contributors. It is best to throttle back and take the extra minute to maintain control during your ride.”  

Safe snowmobiling requires the sharpest of senses and there is no room for alcohol on the trails.  In addition, trails are designed with safety in mind and all riding should occur only in designated areas on these trails established and maintained by local clubs.  NYSSA and all 135,000 members operate with a zero tolerance policy for alcohol consumption while snowmobiling. 

“Every year our club members through out the state inspect local trails and deem them ready to ride,” said Jim Rolf, Trail Coordinator of NYSSA.  “We must encourage respect to those landowners who graciously allow trails on their lands. Trails change as well, and we are seeing a lot of that this year in Eastern New York and the Adirondack regions due to the flooding brought on by Tropical Storms Irene and Lee.  Before you put on your helmet and get on your snowmobile we advise you to reach out to your local club for information on the trails in your area as well as any other important information.”

NYSSA also reminds riders of early season conditions which can, and do, include rocks, ruts, unfrozen water holes, fallen tree limbs, among other which may be lying just below the freshly fallen snow.  Recently there have been strong winds across New York State, causing trees to fall down on trails.  Riders are asked to assist in moving smaller branches and notifying local clubs of bigger trees that need to be removed.


“Our local clubs offer numerous opportunities for riders to participate in professional safety courses,” said Gary Broderick, President and Certified Safety Instructor of NYSSA.  “Last season in more than 220 free courses, we educated 4,800 students on safe practices to observe while riding.  Educating snowmobilers, if it prevents just one accident, is well worth the effort.”