The Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association (SSA) is now giving riders the option of doing their safety training in a classroom setting. The Saskatchewan Safety Council had previously offered the in-class program, but passed it over to the SSA, which has been successfully running an online safety course for the past year.
“It made sense to have it all come from one place,” Chris Brewer, SSA president and CEO said. “After we launched the online training, numbers dropped—but the province still wants it delivered in the classroom. It’s mandatory for anyone born after January 1, 1989, who wants to operate a snowmobile to obtain a Snowmobile Safety Card, but it’s recommended for everyone.”
Snowmobile Safety Training in the classroom is a six-hour course offered at various locations throughout Saskatchewan. It covers a wide range of topics including an overview of laws specific to Saskatchewan, maintenance, safety and operation—seating position, braking, hand signals, off-trail riding, etc.
Brewer said offering the course both online and in a classroom accommodates everyone.
“There is no excuse or reason for people to not easily access the Snowmobile Safety Training program,” said Brewer. “It can completed in one day with the instructor or over a few days on our website. It’s all about getting people educated.
“Studies and statistics prove safety training has decreased the number of incidents and accidents. Yes, the majority of people who take the course are the young riders, as they are mandated to do it, but we do see a wide array of ages as well.”
The in-class safety course costs $75 and offers a family option. The online course is $45.
For more information or to register phone 1-800-499-7533, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.sasksnowmobiling.sk.ca
