Michigan DNR issues winter safety reminder
“People often get caught up in the excitement of the moment and overlook winter safety,” Lt. Tom Wanless said.
With varying winter conditions across Michigan and fluctuating weather forecasts in the coming weeks, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging residents to prioritize safety during outdoor winter activities.
Lt. Tom Wanless of the DNR Law Enforcement Division’s Recreational Safety, Education and Enforcement Section emphasized the importance of staying vigilant.
“People often get caught up in the excitement of the moment and overlook winter safety. This is a beginning of the season reminder to please keep safety in mind this winter,” Wanless said.
The DNR recommends preparing for winter activities by dressing in layers, checking weather and road conditions, carrying essential equipment like flashlights and ice picks, and having spare gear in case of emergencies.
Staying hydrated and fueled, bringing a buddy, and informing others about your itinerary and check-in times are also crucial. Additionally, it is important to carry a two-way communication device that receives service in remote areas and take an honest assessment of your health – if you’re not feeling well, don’t go out.
Wanless highlighted the importance of exercising extreme caution around ice, noting that there’s no reliable way to determine its strength. He stressed the use of personal flotation devices and carrying ice picks.
For snowmobilers, the DNR reminds operators aged 12 to 16 of the mandatory Michigan-approved snowmobile safety certificate requirement to operate without a legal guardian or cross highways.
The DNR’s Ride Right campaign emphasizes safe riding practices, including speed control, sobriety, and riding on the right-hand side of the trail. Speed is the main factor in fatal and serious injury snowmobile accidents.
The campaign comes as the 2022-23 season saw 19 snowmobile fatalities in Michigan, compared to four in the 2023-24 season to date. Find more safety tips and snowmobile rules and regulations at Michigan.gov/RideRight.
For detailed information on recreation safety, including snowmobile safety rules and regulations, visit Michigan.gov/DNR/Education/Safety-Info. For the latest on trail and facility closures, refer to the DNR closures page.
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