OFSC Calls On Snowmobilers To Do Their Part
(Barrie, ON – February 10, 2025): For Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) in partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), reminds all snowmobilers to exercise common sense and adhere to these simple guidelines while out on the trails ensuring that everyone has the safest ride possible.
Let’s do our part in keeping Ontario’s snowmobile trails safe for all to enjoy.
Stay On The Trail: The OFSC reminds snowmobilers to only ride Available OFSC trails throughout the winter, and to always stay on the marked trail. OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trails are planned, prepared and maintained for the use of responsible recreational snowmobilers who display valid Ontario Snowmobile Trail Permits on their sleds. These snowmobile corridors are the smart choice for safety’s sake, and to avoid trespassing on private property or compromising the safety of landowners or their property. OFSC Reminds Snowmobilers To Stay On The Trail – Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs
Know Before You Go: When consulting the OFSC Interactive Trail Guide (ITG), snowmobilers should be aware of the following trail status categories:
- Available: Trails are coloured GREEN, meaning that the identified route(s) is accessible with the understanding that the trail will likely vary considerably in quality, attributes and terrain over its length, and that snowmobilers enter exercising care and caution at all times.
- Limited Availability: Trails are coloured YELLOW, meaning that the identified route(s) is limited with marginal riding opportunities, so snowmobilers enter with the understanding that they should exercise extreme care and caution while reducing speed.
- Unavailable: Trails are coloured RED meaning that the identified route is not available at this time, access is prohibited and anyone entering the property may be trespassing, so snowmobilers must not enter under any circumstances.
“With winter in full swing and more than 23,000 kilometers of trails to ride at the time of this release, I urge snowmobilers to make safety their #1 priority,” said Ryan Eickmeier, OFSC CEO. “With common sense and following these simple tips, we can all do our part in ensuring enjoyable rides are had by all.”
The ABCs of Safe Snowmobiling: As a quick reminder, doing your part is as easy as ABC:
A – Abstain from Alcohol & Drugs: Riding under the influence is illegal and carries the same penalties as impaired driving. It poses significant risks to your safety and others. Remember, “Zero Tolerance” and “Ride Safe, Ride Sober.”
B – Be Prepared For The Unexpected: Snowmobiling occurs in unpredictable environments. Always be ready with the necessary gear and precautions to handle emergencies. Check out these products from OFSC Safety Partners.
C – Caution, Care & Control: Practice common sense by staying on trails, riding within your capabilities, and moderating your pace. Avoid peer pressure and ensure you have enough reaction time to stay safe.
For more safety information, tips and partners, please visit: Safety – Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs
The Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) is a volunteer led, not for profit association that provides the voice for organized snowmobiling in Ontario. OFSC recreational snowmobile trails managed by community based, member clubs and their volunteers generate up to $6 billion in economic activity annually.
For questions or to schedule a media interview with the OFSC, please contact: [email protected]
