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Illinois Agency Offering Tips for Safe Snowmobiling in 2010
Snow is a great sign of impending fun for snowmobilers, but a state agency wants those snowmobilers to be safe.

Last winter, the state logged 39 accidents, 17 injuries, and three deaths involving snowmobiles, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources wants to see those numbers drop this winter.

DNR has the following safety reminders:

* Know your equipment and make sure that equipment is in proper working order.

* Wear sensible, protective clothing designed for snowmobiling, such as a full-size helmet, goggles, or face shield to prevent injuries from twigs, stones, ice chips, and flying debris.

* Avoid wearing long scarves. They may get caught in moving parts of the snowmobile.

* Know the terrain you are going to ride. If it's unfamiliar to you, ask someone who has traveled over it before. Be aware of trails or portions of trails that are closed.

* Drowning is one cause of snowmobile fatalities. When you're not familiar with the thickness of the ice or water currents, avoid these areas.

* Know the weather forecast and especially the ice and snow conditions in the area.

* Use the buddy system. Never ride alone or unaccompanied.

* Never consume alcohol before or during a ride.

(Illinois Radio Network)
01 01 10 by Newsroom
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