From KBJR-TV - February 13, 2019

It was a deadly weekend for snowmobiles. This after five separate crashes in five different Wisconsin counties, claiming the lives of five snowmobilers.

The D-N-R says the crashes happened Friday and Saturday in Calumet, Dunn, Langlade, Iron, and Forest counties. And with more snow on the way, officials are urging snowmobilers to slow down and be careful out on the trails.

Chris Gassert, sales representative at Duluth Lawn and Sport, says riders should always have the proper-fitting head gear and proper gloves when out in the bitter cold. Riders should also make sure their snowmobile is operating properly, with fresh fuel and fresh oil.

Having a spare plug, or spare belt is also something riders should consider having. Planning a sober ride is a must.

Gassert also says riders should try and stay on trails as much as possible.

But far and away, the most important safety aspect, according to Gassert, is protecting your head.

“It can protect your noggin if you get in any accidents. We see the majority of people do wear helmets. A lot of that is because of convenience–it keeps you warm, it’s warmer than just wearing a hat. But, it’s also safety too, people shouldn’t forget that your helmet is good for about 10 years, and after that you should get in a new helmet that’s going to protect you,” said Gassert.

While each of this weekend’s deadly crashes was a separate incident, D-N-R officials say the majority of them involved either losing control at high speeds and/or crashing into an object, like a vehicle or snow bank.

Gassert also says if you plan on taking a trip up the North Shore soon, or going over 2-hundred-plus miles, you should get your snowmobile checked out and up to speed to prevent running into problems on the trail.

Click here for additional snowmobile safety tips.