With winter fast approaching and outdoor activities on the rise, the Wisconsin DNR is reminding snowmobilers to ride safely. Snowmobiling got off to a deadly start at the beginning of the year with 19 snowmobiling fatalities between January and March 2020. Winter’s fluctuating temperatures, snowfalls and snowmelts have made for often-changing terrain and mixed conditions on snowmobile trails. The DNR does not monitor conditions and suggests snowmobilers contact local fishing clubs, snowmobile clubs or outfitters to inquire about trail conditions. Riders can ensure a safe and enjoyable season by staying on marked trails and routes, wearing a helmet and other safety gear, traveling at safe speeds, and never getting on a snowmobile after they’ve been drinking. It’s also important to use extra caution on ice and check ice conditions before heading out. Anyone who is at least 12 years old and who is born on or after January 1, 1985 is required to have a valid Snowmobile Safety Certificate to operate a snowmobile. More than 200,000 registered snowmobiles are estimated to hit the state’s 25,000 miles of groomed trails each winter.