Heavy snowfall and colder temperatures have seen snowmobilers back on Ontario's trails, after several years of less than ideal conditions.
Those riders will see an increased police presence on the trails from February 9 to February 16 for Motorized Snowmobile Week.
The week-long education and enforcement campaign is run jointly by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). Motorized Snowmobile Week targets unsafe riding behaviours that could lead to death, injury, or property damage.
According to police, those behaviours include excessive speed, loss of control, alcohol impairment, and inattentive riding.
In order to have the safest ride possible, police advise:
• Wearing a helmet and other safety gear
• Not riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Staying on approved trails
• Checking the trail status on the OFSC website
• Checking the weather forecast
• Letting someone know about your riding plans
"Taking a few extra steps helps ensure everyone gets home safely and can keep enjoying everything Ontario's winter has to offer," reminds Inspector Mike McConnell, OPP West Region Traffic and Marine Manager.
While none have occurred in Chatham-Kent, there have already been three fatal snowmobile collisions in 2026.
During the entirety of the 2024-2025 riding season five riders lost their lives in fatal motorized snow vehicle collisions.
