Dominic Jacangelo, head of the New York State Snowmobile Association says it's important for riders to refresh their safety training before heading out on the trails.

"We have a year like last year when there's so little snow around, everybody is so enthusiastic to get on their sled and get out for a ride, sometimes they forget some basic elements of keeping things safe: Ride within your ability, operate at a safe and prudent speed all the time, zero alcohol before or during your ride, obeying posted signs and staying on the marked trail."

Jacangelo says many people forget that the rules on a marked trail are the same as for a road. And he says people need to be sure to prepare for changing conditions.

Jacangelo says the snowmobile association encourages sledders to avoid frozen lakes and rivers — especially this year, when the ice in many areas has been weakened by frequent thaws.