Caution urged as start to snowmobiling season inches closer

After a challenging few years for Ontario snowmobilers, trail groomers have appeared to have found some new luck.

Georgian Bay Snowriders, a volunteer-run club that grooms Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club (OFSC) trails in Georgian Bay, is well ahead of schedule a recent dumping of snow and rain to start this week.

Club president Patrick Murray said if everything goes according to plan, the club hopes to have trails open by the holidays.

"It's been a really long time since we've had this much snow on the ground before Christmas," Murray said. "In the next couple of days we have a couple municipal agreements just to get finished, signed up and we're definitely pretty excited to get those agreements in place and roll."

Murray said warmer temperatures has shortened seasons over the last several years, limiting riders to start in mid-January.

Last year, the club saw a total of 15 days of good snowmobiling season.

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While the weather has changed the club's fortune, riders who might travel to the region when trails officially open are urged to proceed with caution.

Temperatures might still be milder than normal, making for more treacherous spots along the trails.

The not-for-profit outfitter in Horseshoe Resort, S.M.A.R.T. Riding Adventures, helps teach snowmobiling safety tips.

Clinton Smout is the general program manager and said his courses will help would-be riders improve their skills and become aware of the proper safety gear needed when riding.

Smout urged every rider to wear ice suits, made specifically for those who might fall under water.

Added safety supplies carried in backpack are also encouraged, like a first-aid kit, waterproof matches and a strap to pull someone out of the water.

Smout also carries ice picks around his neck in the event that he is to fall into water, making it easier to climb out.

"Our recommendation is always to do the sanctioned, organized trail system where hundreds of volunteers, probably thousands in Ontario, have prepared trails with signage," Smout said.

"Patience is important, the groomers have to go out there and we need a really good base for snowmobile trails because as soon as it goes green, there's thousands of snowmobiles coming up Highway 400 to our area," he added.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) urge riders to stay clear of any bodies of water, with virtually no ice on waterways this time of year.

According to OPP, 40 per cent of fatalities its investigated over the past decade have been a result in riders falling through the ice.

"People fail to wear their helmet or wear appropriate clothing or safety equipment," said Const. David Hobson of the OPP. "There are unfortunate incidences where people get severely injured or worse."

Hobson said police will be out patrolling trails to ensure riders are acting in a safe manner and have proper paper work and permits once OFSC trails are open.

There are currently no official trails open in the province.