Wisconsin C-stores Aid in Snowmobile Safety Education

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — Wisconsin convenience stores are teaming up with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Wisconsin Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (WPMCA) to help remind consumers about the dangers of drunken or impaired snowmobile driving and riding, according to a WQOW report.

DNR and WisDOT are supplying educational pumptoppers to more than 350 participating WPMCA member c-stores, which are donating the pump space.

"Since many motorists and snowmobilers stop at WPMCA member stores for gas and supplies, the pumptoppers will be an effective reminder to our customers that they need to be sober while operating a vehicle or a snowmobile," WPMCA Chairman Ed Francois said in a released statement.

The safety reminders were prompted by the fact that Wisconsin's 25,000 miles of groomed trails are a prime destination for snowmobile enthusiasts.

"Safety is an important part of any snowmobile ride, and a great lesson to teach younger riders," stated DNR Snowmobile Safety Administrator Gary Eddy. "The DNR offers snowmobile safety tips online, as well as safety courses to help anyone ride smart from the start so you enjoy your time in the great outdoors."

Educational efforts to combat drunk driving through methods such as pumptopper messages help reduce deaths and injuries from traffic crashes, according to WisDOT.