With trails starting to open in the area, North Bay OPP are reminding snowmobilers to drive safely.

Police say venturing out on unsafe ice, speeding, driving too fast for the conditions and alcohol consumption continue to be leading causes in snowmobile-related fatalities.

Here are some safety tips from OPP:
– Have a safety plan – let someone know where you are going and when you will arrive at your destination.
– Check weather conditions before leaving.
– Carry emergency equipment, including a fire starting kit, food, something to keep you hydrated, flares, emergency blankets, charged cell phone, axe, saw and a trail map.

Police encourage enthusiasts to use the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club trails, saying they remain the safest areas to ride on.

Check with your area OFSC for trail conditions or search online at http://www.ofsc.on.ca/.

Filed under: north-bay-opp, snowmobile-safety