I am writing in regards to the cover picture of Wednesday’s Dec. 15 Gazette, showing a young man doing a moderate snowmobile stunt.
As a safety professional and a father I found this picture disturbing and in bad taste. Not because of the riding of a snowmobile, but because of the fact that this picture shows yet another young person risking his life by not wearing a helmet while riding and performing stunts on a snowmobile. Yes I do understand that there is no particular law in effect in Alberta mandating helmets, but what does this picture tell other young people having fun? It says no precautions must be taken.
There have been 28 snowmobile deaths in Alberta in the past eight years and the majority of the deceased have been young males between the ages of 20 and 28. That picture sure does seem to fit the statistics. Please, if pictures such as these are taken, a statement should be added providing proper safety tips. The photographer could have easily witnessed an injury or death during those activities. Young men tend to take greater risks when a camera is pointed at them.
Chris Harroun, St. Albert
