Snowmobile Safety Tips

SAFETY TIPS:

If you prefer to enjoy Minnesota's winter wonderland on the back of a snowmobile, follow these essential safety tips and keep your season accident-free.

• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.
• Do not use a snowmobile to pull a sled or skiers.
• Always wear a helmet, eye protection and proper clothing.
• Travel at safe speeds.
• Never use alcohol or other drugs before or during snowmobiling.
• Never snowmobile alone.
• Stay on marked trails, away from roads, water, railroads and pedestrians.
• Stay clear of thin ice and lake inlets - and never cross open water.

Get to know MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Rules

• You must register your snowmobile with MN DNR in person at any deputy registrar of motor vehicles. The cost is under $50.
• A snowmobile State Trail sticker is required for all snowmobiles operating on state trails.
• Safety Certification is required by law for anyone born after Dec. 31, 1976.
• If you or someone you know has been involved in a snowmobile accident that resulted in an injury requiring medical attention, death or damage of more than $500, you must file an official accident report with the Department of Natural Resources within 48 hours of the accident.
• Download current Minnesota Snowmobile regulations and find a current schedule of safety training courses at www.dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiling.

Minnesota has 278,886 registered snowmobiles, the second highest number in the nation behind Michigan which has 374,522.