Snowmobile fatality at Swan River

March 18, 2018, 6:56 am

This morming, Saturday, March 17, 2018, at 2:25 am, the Swan River RCMP responded to a report of a snowmobile collision located approximately 6 kilometres southeast of Swan River.

A 43-year-old male, from Swan River, was travelling with a small group when it appears he lost control of his snowmobile and veered off the trail colliding with a tree. He was transported to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

The deceased was wearing a helmet and police believe that speed and alcohol are factors in the collision.

Swan River RCMP continue to investigate.

This is the seventh snowmobile fatality in Manitoba since January 20.

With winter coming to an end very soon, and since we finally have some snow, many snowmobilers will head out in the next few weekends for that last ride of the season.

The RCMP has the following tips in the hopes of making everyone who rides a snowmobile safer so that they can get home to their friends and family:

- Know your abilities and ride within your limits. This will allow you to always be in control of your snowmobile.
- Use caution, be alert and slow down when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Always look ahead and be ready for hidden or unforeseen obstacles.
- Always ride in groups and let people know where you’re going, the route you will be taking, and when you expect to return.
- Wear the proper protective clothing, including a helmet, to keep you warm and to keep you safe.
- Be cautious of ice thickness when crossing frozen bodies of water. If you are crossing a body of water, please wear a floatation device over your outer clothing.
- RIDE SOBER. Drinking and operating a snowmobile don’t mix.