The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Russell County continue to conduct patrols on local snowmobile trails as part of Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week, with enforcement efforts already resulting in two seven-day driver’s licence suspensions.
According to police, officers were actively patrolling both on snowmobiles and at key trail intersections on Friday, February 13. During those patrols, two riders were found to be operating over the provincial legal limit for alcohol. Both were issued immediate seven-day driver’s licence suspensions.
The patrols are focused on trails maintained by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC), which oversees a vast network of marked and groomed snowmobile routes across the province, including those in the Russell County area.
Zero tolerance for impaired riding
Police are reminding riders that impaired operation laws apply to snowmobiles in the same way they do to motor vehicles. Operating a snowmobile while impaired by alcohol or drugs carries serious penalties, including immediate roadside suspensions, vehicle impoundment and potential criminal charges.
Snowmobile Safety Week is an annual awareness and enforcement campaign aimed at reducing collisions, injuries and fatalities during peak riding season. OPP officers use the campaign to emphasize responsible riding practices, including sober operation, proper documentation and adherence to trail regulations.
Family Day patrols planned
Russell County OPP confirmed that officers would also be out on patrol on Family Day, a traditionally busy time on local trails.
Riders heading out are reminded to carry all required documentation, including a valid trail permit, a valid driver’s licence, vehicle ownership, and proof of insurance.
Police also reiterated a clear safety message: do not drink and ride.
With winter conditions drawing large numbers of snowmobilers to OFSC trails, officers say proactive enforcement remains essential to ensuring the safety of riders and other trail users throughout the region.
