A pair of potentially serious snowmobile incidents over the weekend have prompted South Bruce OPP to issue a reminder about sled safety.
The first incident saw a snowmobile go through the ice on a waterway near Kinlough around 10 p.m. on Saturday. The operator of the machine was not hurt, OPP said.
Then in an unrelated incident just before 1 p.m. on Sunday, a 17-year-old was ejected from a snowmobile on a trail near Ripley. The teen was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. Charges of driving with no insurance and driving a motorized snow vehicle with trail permit not issued have been laid against the operator.
"With the heavy snowfall in the Bruce County area, it's looking to be a great year for snowmobiling; however, there are risks associated," police said in a statement issued Tuesday.
Snowmobilers are reminded that no ice is safe to drive on, to always wear a helmet and check trail conditions before heading out. As well, the police stressed it is important to always obey speed limits, ride on the right side of the trail, come to a complete stop before entering any roadway, never ride on private property without permission or leave young riders without supervision, and regularly inspect your machine.
Those heading out should also pack a first-aid and survival kit and dress appropriately for the conditions.
