ride right

For Immediate Release February 4, 2005 Warden Service Colonel Reminds Snowmobilers to Ride Right, Ride Safe AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine's snowmobile season is well underway, and February is a popular time for snowmobile trail riding and snowmobile festivals. Maine has over 13,000 miles of trails enjoyed by over tens of thousands of riders each year, and the Maine Warden Service wants to make sure that you ride responsibly while out enjoying Maine's winter. "Snowmobiling is a safe, enjoyable and fun winter activity in Maine. Maine Game Wardens work hard to keep it safe and fun but rider responsibility is of the utmost importance for all snowmobilers," said Colonel Thomas Santaguida, Chief of Maine's Warden Service, who also emphasized that the Maine Warden Service takes a tough stance on violations that endanger people or involve drunk driving. The Warden Service conducts safety and trail checks throughout the winter in addition to enforcement patrols and checkpoints. Last year, game wardens checked approximately 25,000 riders. While the vast majority of riders operate their machines responsibly, game wardens do take enforcement action when snowmobile law violations are encountered. Wardens are directed to take a strict stance on violations that involve endangering people, imprudent speed and operating under the influence. The Maine Warden Service oversees the safety of those enjoying Maine's snowmobile trails, and reminds people to Ride Right, Ride Safe this winter and that means all riders should: * Ride Sober. Maine's snowmobile operating under the influence law is one of the toughest in the country. Any rider found operating a snowmobile under the influence will be arrested on the spot, and faces fines of up to $1,000 and 6 months in jail. Wardens take OUI enforcement seriously. Ride Sober! * Ride Right. Stay to the right side of the trail. Operating to the left of the center of the trail may endanger oncoming riders. Ride Right! * Ride Safe. Maine law requires that you operate at a Reasonable and Prudent Speed. Conditions change and so should your speed. Stay in control. If you are not in control of your sled, you are going too fast. Ride Safe! Riders should also remember to always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. That way, if you have unexpected trouble on the trails game wardens whom are called to search for you will be able to locate you quickly.