The Wisconsin DNR is urging snowmobilers to put down the bottle before hopping on the sled. This, after the 2023 fatality count rises to nine.
DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator Lieutenant Jacob Holsclaw says he’s especially concerned with the big football weekend coming up, an event that will likely increase the numbers of those drinking, and possibly snowmobiling afterwards. He noted that local sheriff’s deputies and DNR conservation wardens are amping up patrol efforts to make sure you’re staying safe, as he said that “Over the past five years, alcohol was involved in 68% of snowmobile fatalities.”
Wisconsin DNR regulations apply the same standards to snowmobilers as to drivers, with a point-zero-eight percent blood alcohol limit and a full prohibition on controlled substances. Violations can also cost between $125 and $2,000 depending on your record and the nature of the incident.
The DNR provides the following online links to more information, and also the Violation Hotline phone number and online portal.
Visit the DNR’s snowmobiling webpage for additional information on snowmobile safety classes, regulations, safety tips and how to register your snowmobile.
Anyone with information regarding natural resource violations, including unsafe snowmobile operation, may confidentially report by calling or texting the Violation Hotline at 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Trained staff relay the information to conservation wardens. Reports can also be filed online
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