Published: December 22, 2008 07:00 pm      

Forum: Snowmobile safety is important

On behalf of the Michigan Snowmobile Association I would like to remind everyone that safety is especially important during the holidays.

These are wonderful times that bring families together for celebration. If you are going to enjoy Michigan's wonderful snowmobile trails remember a few things that are unique to this time of year.

-- Family gatherings mean that more snowmobiles and younger riders will be using the trails. Some of these riders are less experienced than others. Minor supervision is very important.

-- Michigan law requires snowmobilers under the age of 12 to be supervised by an adult, even when riding on property owned by a parent or guardian. Anyone under 12 must refrain from crossing a roadway.

-- Snowmobilers ages 12 to 17 may operate a snowmobile if they have a valid snowmobile safety certificate in their immediate possession or if they are under direct supervision by a person at least 21 years of age.

-- Zero tolerance for alcohol and snowmobiling is strictly enforced at all times. Not only is this an extremely dangerous mix, but infractions also count against motor vehicle driving records. Law enforcement officers are on the trails.

-- In addition to personal responsibility, groomed and marked trails are essential to safe riding.

Remember that trail grooming is done by clubs and business associations, most of whom are volunteers.

The snowmobile industry contributes greatly to our economy.

It generates more than $1 billion per year for Michigan's economy and supports over 7,000 direct jobs.

Let's continue to enjoy snowmobiling in a safe way that is respectful to other riders and those around our trails.

Please stay on the marked, groomed trails and do not trespass on private property.

Happy holidays from your friends at the Michigan Snowmobile Association.

About the author: Bill Manson is the executive director of the Michigan Snowmobile Association, the voice of over 380,000 registered Michigan snowmobilers, and more than 100,000 out-of-state riders. For more information visit www.msasnow.org

About the forum: The forum is a periodic column of opinion written by Record-Eagle readers in their areas of interest or expertise. Submissions of 500 words or less may be made by e-mailing letters@record-eagle.com. Please include biographical information and a photo.