It's inevitable each year it seems.

Snowmobile deaths.

And now we've had the first deadly accident of the winter season. And there are, unfortunately, going to be more. But maybe, hopefully, fewer this year.

You just hate to see it.

Reckless riding. High speeds. Alcohol. Thin ice. Poor planning.

All factors that can and do add up to tragedy.

If you're a snowmobile rider make sure you know the rules of the trail so you and your partners can ride safely and have fun. Like riding to the right, riding sober, riding at a prudent speed, using hand signals, staying alert and riding defensively.

Get all the safety information you need from the good folks at the Maine Snowmobile Association. Like the interactive snowmobile safety CD produced by the MSA and the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife. It's free. Get it. Play it. Know it.

Or download the Ride Right, Ride Smart safety booklet.

And consider a snowmobile safety education course.

All good stuff to help keep you and others safe on the trail.