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Slow Down, Ride Right: 12th Annual Blessing of the Sleds

The blesses the snowmobile riders for a safe riding season, and the late start to the season will not keep them from doing it again Saturday.

Bob Platt, president of the Irons Area Tourist Association, says that accidents are the last thing he wants this season.

“We just finally started getting snow, I went out for the first time to pack it down yesterday, so we’re hoping the weather turns up and we can keep building up a good base,” Platt says.

Even with the late start, the DNR wants everyone to keep a few safety tips in mind.

Scott Slavin, a northwest Michigan recreational trails specialist, says, “Early in the season people get really excited to go out and ride and I think some of that excitement they oversee some of the safety procedures that they need to follow.”

Like knowing your limits on the machine and riding right, says Slavin.

“Stay on the right side of the trail, ride sober, keep your speeds low and we really try to promote that.”

The DNR says speed is a contributing factor in nearly all fatal accidents so make sure you slow down and be safe.

Platt says, “We want everybody to come up here have a great time, go home safe and come back another time when they get a chance and then enjoy our 120 miles of trails that we have.”

So that everyone can ride safely and come back another day.

“Makes it kind of tough with the weather being the way it is, I mean it’s right on the verge, but the grounds white, so people will come out and ride,” Platt says.

The is Saturday, Jan. 18, at Skinner Park in Irons. There will be a free breakfast at 9 a.m. The blessing starts at 11 a.m.