The unfortunate deaths of four snowmobilers in late December highlight the risks of this popular winter pastime, putting a black mark on the start of what otherwise looks like a promising season.

It was Sunday, Dec. 30 when the deaths occurred in an accident that officials are calling the worst snowmobile tragedy in Maine’s history. Although only one body has been recovered, all four of the riders appear to have driven onto thin ice on Rangeley Lake, where their machines fell through. All of the snowmobilers were riding after dark, with wind whipping around the snow, causing low visibility.

We extend our condolences to the families of those who died, especially since it must be difficult not to have the confirmation of seeing their bodies, which have yet to be recovered due to extreme winter conditions.

Most forms of recreation come with some risks, from motorcycling to skiing, but some of that risk can be managed by safety gear and prudent operation. In the case of snowmobiles, deaths are not uncommon in the sport due to the high speeds and uncertainty of the condition of the snow-covered terrain below. According to an Associated Press report, a record high of 16 fatalities occurred in the winter of 2002-03 on Maine’s 14,000 miles of snowmobile trails.

No one who loves riding snowmobiles is going to give up the thrill of blazing through the snowy woods and fields of Maine, no matter how many fatalities are reported, because most of us believe “it can’t happen to me.” It can, of course, but those who ride responsibly are far less likely to find themselves in danger.

The Maine Warden Service and the Maine Snowmobile Association recently held a press conference to stress safe riding, and those who belong to riding clubs will be familiar with the guidelines. We’d like to join them in sharing tips for safe riding, in the hopes of spreading a message that could save lives.

The association recommends that all riders take a safety course, but it’s not required. For those who take to the trails without it, the association recommends a few basic rules: Ride to the right, ride sober, ride at a reasonable speed, use hand signals and ride defensively.

Added to that message is to stay on marked trails rather than venturing into open areas of questionable safety, and to never drive on frozen ponds or lakes “unless you are absolutely sure of ice thickness.”

Those who died in December were not familiar with the area and had not determined whether the lake was safe to cross. Locals know that the middle of the lake is among the last places to freeze, but those from other areas must have thought it was solid enough, at least for crossing at a high rate of speed. Their mistake was deadly, however, which is what makes it all the more important that their deaths serve as a reminder to all snowmobilers to be more vigilant about safety measures when they head out on the trails.

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Today’s editorial was written by Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski on behalf of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Kristen by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.