The busy snowmobile season has caused RCMP to issue some reminders about the laws and rules governing the operation of sleds. Constable Colin Choquette says any sled that travels on public property must be registered. And he explains who is eligible to drive a snowmobile.

"If you have a valid driver's licence, you can drive your snowmobile off your property, you can drive a snowmobile in ditches, you can cross a roadway. If you don't have a licence, you're allowed to drive a snowmobile only in the ditches but you're not allowed to cross a road. Under 14 years of age, you can only operate a snowmobile under the direct supervision of an adult. Anybody who is 14 or 15 years of age, you can operate a snowmobile in the ditches, but you cannot travel across roadways, shoulders or sidewalks."

Choquette says sleds are not permitted in city parks nor on private property unless the owner has given permission.

Choquette also urges people to wear a helmet when sledding even on private property.

"A lot of times I'll be driving out on patrol and I'll see a family or a kid driving on a snowmobile and not wearing helmets. Put a helmet on. It's life-saving. The other thing I'd like to talk about is the misconception that, 'If I'm driving my snowmobile on my property, I can have a few drinks and drive my snowmobile.' Well you can't. It's still illegal to drink and ride no matter where you are, private property or not."