Snowmobile safety should be first priority

Whether it’s going to and from work or just at play, snowmobile safety should be your first priority.

Before you start your machine you should ensure that your brakes, throttle and lighting devices are all in excellent working order. The wearing of a helmet for the driver and passenger is not only an important safety precaution, but also a mandatory piece of equipment required by law.

While in the city limits it is required that helmets be worn on ATVs and snow machines, both on and off the road.

As a rider, you hold all the responsibilities of any other driver on our roadways. It is of the highest importance that you ride your machine on the right hand side of the road, ensuring you stop at stop signs, obey the speed limits, and be mindful of your surroundings.

Never ride your machine on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic, as your headlight may cause ill effects to the others drivers’ vision and place not only them, but yourself, as well as any pedestrians, in danger.

As well, snow machines are built for the capacity of one driver and one passenger only. Carrying more than one passenger at a time on your snow machine can place their safety and wellbeing in jeopardy.

A driver of an ATV must be at least 14 years of age to ride the machine. Any individual under the age of 14 wishing to operate an ATV or snow machine must be accompanied by an adult.

If we take this little extra time to wear a helmet and obey the rules of the road, it will provide everyone with an enjoyable experience.

Please keep in mind that all snow machines must be properly insured and registered with the city while operating within city limits.

The use of modified exhaust systems are strictly prohibited within city limits, as it creates excessive noise pollution and infringes on every citizen’s right to a peaceful environment.

The city and you, together we can make Iqaluit a safer and more enjoyable place to live.

Robert Kavanaugh
Chief Bylaw Officer
City of Iqaluit