Winter Fatalities Creating Caution

There have been 18 snowmobiling fatalities in the state so far this winter.

Ten of these fatalities have occurred on lakes, two reported on Lake Sacandaga.

Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino says part of the problem are ice eaves, or space between the bottom of the ice and top of the water.

"And the ice eaves and ridges are formed when the reservoir, the dam, lets water out."

Giardino says riders who are not aware of them could end up slamming into them and falling through the ice.

He recommends staying on the trails for safety, as well as riding with a companion, checking your sled beforehand, and always operating a snowmobile without being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

A word of caution for winter hikers as well.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is advising skiers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts that fluctuating temperatures have increased the risk of an avalanche in the High Peaks Region of the Adirondacks.

The Adirondacks have received 18 to 26 inches of snow in the past two weeks, on top of previous snow.

Due to high winds, snow depths are expected to be deeper on certain slopes.

Photo: Getty Images


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