Saskatchewan RCMP are teaming up with the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association to raise awareness of the consenquences faced when choosing to drink and ride.

The SSA's latest campaign is called "Don't Drink and Ride" encourages snowmobilers to drive sober for their safety and the safety of other riders this winter.

The reason behind the campaign? Well, the latest statistics from SGI reveal shocking facts when it comes to impaired snowmobile operators.

According to the statistics, alcohol is a contributing factor in more than 40 per cent of fatal road-vehicle crashes in Saskatchewan each year. The facts are more staggering when it comes to snowmobile deaths as three out of four snowmobilers were found to be drinking.

Operating a snowmobile while impaired is still an offence under the Criminal Code and carries the same penalty as driving a car while impaired.

Law enforcement will also be focusing on stressing about alcohol-free snowmobile shelters as they have been designated strictly as family zones. In the past, people have treated them as a location to consume alcohol and/or narcotics.

When there is more snow on the ground, RCMP are capable of utilizing their very own snowmobiles to help monitor trails and other pieces of land. Officers will be assuring snowmobiles are registered and are driven in a safe manner over the next few months.

With that in mind, be safe and careful out there riders, and enjoy ripping through the snow!