The Lake Orion Police Department wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable winter season, please know these common sense rules before you enter a frozen lake, and please consider the following:
~Ice thickness is measured by new, clear, solid ice.
~Minimum standards for entry are: 4? for foot traffic, 5? ? 6? for snowmobiles and ATVs, 8? ? 12? for cars or small trucks.
~There may be hidden areas of weak or thin ice near shore or by storm water drains and under bridges or where moving water is present.
~Call 911 immediately if a person is in the water, seconds matter. Almost anything can be thrown to rescue a person in the water, jumper cables, a ladder, anything that will float enough to assist, or allow you pull them out from a safe position.
~Always wear a flotation vest when venturing onto frozen water, or a newer model flotation snowmobile suit. Wet winter clothing can add up to 60 lbs of weight.
~Avoid the excessive use of alcohol, a diminished reaction time could be fatal.
Snowmobile Laws and Safety
No Person Shall Operate a Snowmobile:
~On any Village street or right-of-way, except for crossing the street or bridge.
~Within 100 feet of a person, shanty, or cleared skating rink except at minimum speed to maintain forward momentum.
~Within 100 feet of a dwelling between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM at a speed greater than the minimum required to maintain forward movement.
~Under the two (2) public bridges designated as Bellevue Bridge and Park Island Bridge at a speed greater than the minimum required to maintain forward motion.
~In a reckless or careless manner, or while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic drugs, or combination of both.
~Unless equipped with a muffler in good working order to prevent unusual noise levels.
~Without adequate face/vision protection
~Without a valid certificate of registration, and must be in possession of a valid driver license or safety certificate, as required by Michigan law.
~If under the age of 12, without direct parent and/or adult supervision.
~Without a lighted headlight and lighted taillight during the hours from ? hour after sunset to ? hour before sunrise.
~To chase, pursue, worry or kill any wild bird or animal.
~You may not operate a snowmobile if your license to operate an automobile has been suspended or revoked by Michigan or your home state.