WISCONSIN (WTAQ) — This month, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has confirmed seven snowmobile related deaths.
Many of these deaths are due to speed (particularly with negotiating turns), alcohol and drug use while riding, and operator inexperience. Jake Holsclaw with the DNR says the victims of these fatalities are all over the age of 40.
Anyone who is born on or after Jan. 1, 1985, and who has reached the age of 12, is required to take a snowmobile class; which means those 40 and older aren’t required to take the class.
“Maybe there’s an issue where folks are kind of grandfathered in, for lack of a better word, and haven’t taken the safety course because it’s not required.” said Holsclaw.
Every snowmobile operator is highly encouraged to take a snowmobile safety class. Other safety tips include wearing appropriate outdoor gear, keeping a fully charged phone with you, and telling somebody where you’re going and when you’ll be back. For more information about snowmobile safety classes, click here.
