Snowmobilers and MADD join forces

MADD Endorses Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations

“Zero Tolerance While Snowmobiling” Position

In a united effort towards eliminating alcohol as a major contributing factor in snowmobiling fatalities and injuries the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations announced today that they have been joined by MADD Canada with support for a concentrated campaign directed towards snowmobiling enthusiasts across Canada.

Last month the CCSO with the support of its provincial and territorial associations backed a trend setting resolution for the adoption of 0.00% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level as the only acceptable number while riding a snowmobile.

“Organized snowmobiling is saying that a 0.08% BAC is not good enough while engaging in any motorized recreational activity such as boating, ATV riding, dirt biking, motor cycling or snowmobiling” advised CCSO general manager Dave Campbell. “Alcohol affects your judgment and your reflexes….Our Zero Tolerance position calls for total abstinence from alcohol while riding a snowmobile….Hopefully other organizations will adopt this approach”

MADD Canada executive director, Andrew Murie agreed that the 0.00% approach is certainly the ideal target to aim for. MADD is currently pursuing the federal government to lower the Criminal Code blood alcohol level from 0.08% to 0.05%. In addition MADD is pursuing the provincial governments to enact new legislation which will help to increase the powers and resources required for police forces to help eliminate drinking and driving across Canada.

Present plans call for magazine advertisements, posters, public service announcements and a special identification marker for snowmobiles which will show visual support for the Zero Tolerance program and also serve as a reminder to all riders of their commitment towards keeping their sport safe and enjoyable for all.

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