A 38-year-old Indiana man died from injuries suffered in a Jan. 19 snowmobile crash near Ewen.

Chad E. Keifer of West Lafayette, Ind., was southbound on the trail when he failed to negotiate a turn and drove off an embankment, Michigan State Police troopers said.

Alcohol and speed are believed to be factors in the accident.

A Pewaukee, Wis., man died in a snowmobile accident in northern Wisconsin on Jan. 10.

The Vilas, Wis., County sheriff’s office says 34-year-old Jason Ringle was driving a snowmobile on a trail when he fell off the machine and was struck from behind by another snowmobile in his group.

And a 49-year-old Shiocton, Wis., man was injured in a snowmobile crash in the Town of Tipler, Wis., on Jan. 18.

According to Florence County Sheriff Jeff Rickaby, a witness reported that the man’s snowmobile became airborne as it crossed a bridge.

Snowmobile safety must be a high priority with the snowmobile community.

Beginning in the late 1980s the manufacturers, working closely with the International Association of Snowmobile Administrators and state and provincial snowmobile associations, agreed that a specific week in January of each year should be set aside to highlight the snowmobile safety campaign.

Snowmobile enthusiasts are encouraged draw attention to safe snowmobile behavior this week – and every time they ride. An integral part of safety week is the association’s Safe Riders campaign. The campaign that was initiated in 1995. It is widely endorsed and supported by snowmobile enthusiasts.

The International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association offers the following tips:

– Keep your machine in top shape. You have two good guides available for snowmobile maintenance: the owner’s manual that came with it and your dealer. Consult both to make sure your machine is kept in top form.

-Dress appropriately. Wear layers of clothing, so that you can add or remove a layer or two to match changing conditions. A windproof outer layer is especially important, as are warm gloves or mitts, boots and a helmet. A visor is essential for clear vision and wind protection and the chin strap should be snug.

– Know your abilities and don’t go beyond them.

– Know your machine’s capabilities and don’t push beyond them.

– Know your riding area. Get a map. Talk to the local folks.

Snowmobiling is great fun, but it can be dangerous. Snowmobile riders must drive smart, and use good judgment.

The Daily News

IRON?MOUNTAIN