Winter and Snowmobiles, Sledding, and Skiing

Snowmobiles

Each year preventable snowmobile accidents claim the lives of their victims.

Negligent and reckless operation is often a contributing factor to snowmobile accidents. Although snowmobiling can be fun, the rider should be continuously aware of the risks.

An educated snowmobile rider will use caution when snowmobiling in unfamiliar environments. Fallen logs, stones, ditches and dangerous embankments can be hidden hazards which remain covered under a recent snowfall. In addition, snowmobiling on snow covered lakes is strongly discouraged.

Snowmobile riders cannot adequately determine the thickness and safety of a frozen lake / pond from the driver's seat of a snowmobile.

Skiing and Sledding

Those who choose skiing and sledding for their winter sports are reminded to remain safe and consider wearing the appropriate protective gear.

Wearing a helmet may mitigate the risk of serious head injuries. Although sometimes tempting, please do not take unwarranted safety risks in order to impress others. Taking unnecessary risks in order to impress others can provide a fleeing moment of fame followed by emergency surgery and months of rehabilitative therapy. Sledding and skiing should always be in areas that provide maximum visibility with limited obstacles.

Skiing or sledding enthusiasts should cautiously consider their level of experience and allow for the possibility of "human error." A lack of experience combined with human error can contribute to skiing or sledding accidents. Please allow "common sense" to guide your outdoor winter recreational activities while you enjoy the beauty of the New England outdoors. Lastly, please respect the rights of property owners when snowmobiling.