As people venture outside over the holiday break, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds everyone to put safety first when enjoying favorite winter activities.

“People often get caught up in the excitement of the moment and overlook winter safety,” said Lt. Tom Wanless of the DNR Law Enforcement Division’s Recreational Safety, Enforcement and Safety Section. “This is a beginning-of-the-season reminder to please keep safety in mind this winter.”

Before heading out, make sure to —

— Wear light layers that can easily be added or removed — it is possible to overheat, even in winter.

— Carry appropriate equipment for the activity, such as a flashlight, rope, ice picks or ice claws.

— Have spare equipment available in case something breaks.

— To stay hydrated and fueled, bring water and snacks.

— Bring a buddy.

— Tell others where you will be and how long you plan to be gone and schedule check-in times.

— Carry a two-way communication device that receives service in remote areas.

— Take an honest assessment of your health — if not feeling well, don’t go out.

— Always use extreme caution around ice, as there is no reliable way to test ice strength. If going out on the ice, wear a personal flotation device and carry ice picks in an easy-to-reach location.

In Michigan, all snowmobile operators ages 12 to 16 must obtain a snowmobile safety certificate to operate without a legal guardian or to cross a highway or street. The snowmobile safety certificate and a trail permit can be obtained at Michigan.gov/Snowmobiling.

The DNR’s Ride Right snowmobile safety campaign emphasizes the importance of riding sober, at a safe speed and on the right side of the trail. Speed is the main factor in fatal and serious injury snowmobile accidents, according to the DNR. The 2022-23 season saw 19 snowmobile fatalities, and one already has occurred at the start of the 2023-24 season. For more safety tips and snowmobile rules and regulations, go online to Michigan.gov/RideRight.