Provincial police say they responded to 27 snowmobile deaths during the 2016-2017 season, a number the deputy commissioner says is "unacceptable."
The OPP said Monday that the 27 deaths marked the highest number of fatalities since the winter of 2003-2004. Police say a third of those deaths came from incidents in which snowmobiles broke through frozen waterways.
"The spike in snowmobile fatalities and all-time record high in ice-related deaths last season are unacceptable," said OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair in a statement released Monday. "The vast majority of the 27 snowmobilers who died took unnecessary risks instead of making it a safe, enjoyable ride that got them home safely to their families. With very few exceptions, speeding, driving too fast for the conditions, consuming alcohol, riding on unsafe ice and other risky behaviours are what lead to snowmobile deaths every year."
Police released the figures as they kicked off Safe Snowmobile Week with the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs. The OPP and the federation are urging all snowmobile riders to make sure they are operating their machines in a safe manner.
"Snowmobiling occurs in an unpredictable and uncontrollable natural setting with inherent risks that demand constant rider preparedness, vigilance, caution, unimpaired reaction and smart decisions," said the federation's Lisa Stackhouse. "The OFSC encourages all snowmobilers to click on the GO Safe link on our website to learn about how they can enjoy the safest ride possible."