Snowmobilers across Manitoba are being welcomed back onto the trails this winter, with a strong reminder from safety partners to ride responsibly and take precautions to ensure everyone gets home safely.
The Manitoba RCMP, Manitoba Public Insurance and Snowmobilers of Manitoba are issuing the reminder ahead of International Snowmobile Safety Week, which begins Saturday.
“Winter is a wonderful time of year for snowmobilers to hit the trails and enjoy the season, but we strongly urge everyone to ride safely,” said RCMP Staff Sgt. Matt Lavallee, who teaches snowmobile safety courses to RCMP members. “Snowmobilers need to ride in a responsible manner so that everyone returns home at the end of the ride.”
Lavallee said Manitoba law requires all riders to wear an approved snowmobile helmet while operating a machine, and riders under the age of 14 must be under adult supervision. RCMP officers patrol trails throughout the province and will enforce snowmobile laws as needed.
Over the past six years, 28 snowmobile-related deaths have occurred in Manitoba, including four in 2025. Speed was a contributing factor in many of those fatalities, along with alcohol impairment, improper or no helmet use, driver inexperience and careless driving.
“January and February have the highest fatality rates among snowmobilers in Manitoba, so it is very important to continue to have conversations to educate riders about snowmobile safety,” said Maria Campos, vice-president and chief customer and product officer for MPI. “Snowmobiling is a fantastic way to enjoy Manitoban winters, and by slowing down, wearing a helmet and riding sober, we can keep it fun and safe.”
Officials say safety starts before riders even leave home. Snowmobilers are encouraged to check their machines for mechanical issues, including brakes, lights, fuel levels and engine performance. Carrying a fully charged cellphone, first-aid kit and basic repair tools — such as a spare belt, pull cord and spark plugs — is also recommended. Riders should plan routes in advance, share travel details with someone at home, and dress appropriately in warm, layered clothing with a properly fitted helmet.
Once on the trail, riders are reminded to maintain safe speeds, stay alert and courteous, watch for hidden hazards beneath the snow, cross roads and highways only where permitted, and never operate a snowmobile while impaired.
“The safety of riders is of utmost importance to our organization,” said Joe Thievin, a vice-president with Snoman. “Riders need to drive to their level of ability, avoid alcohol or drugs, and take all necessary precautions so they can ride again.”
MPI collects a $25 non-refundable annual fee on all off-road vehicle registrations to support trail maintenance and development, safety education and training programs, and rehabilitation of public lands affected by off-road vehicle use. Riders are also encouraged to purchase a Snopass, which provides access to approximately 13,000 kilometres of designated provincial trails and helps fund trail grooming and maintenance that contribute to safer riding conditions.
