1. Don’t drink and drive: This certainly applies to snowmobilers as well.
Drinking alcohol:
can impair your judgment and you may take unnecessary risks
will slow your reaction time
increases your likelihood to speed
lowers body temperature which can cause hypothermia
is a major cause in preventable snowmobile accidents and fatalities
2. Plan your trip/ride
Get a trail map and become familiar with the area.
Are there official snowmobile trails? Recommended: Stay on marked trails if possible or, where allowed, on the right shoulder of the road. Watch out for object that may be hidden in snow, like fences, posts, wires etc.
Avoid trespassing on private and protected reserved areas.
Make sure you have a licence and permit if this is what is required in the area. (Check with local Snowmobile Clubs or the local Government)
if you plan a longer trip leave your itinerary with a friend or family member in case you have an accident or get stuck in an isolated area.
Get information about the terrain you will be riding in (crossing lakes and rivers can be treacherous and it is probably best to avoid it.
Mountains can pose an avalanche risk .and you should watch for signs and alerts pointing to the level of danger on a given day. Alert status can change within an hour. , so be prepared. Recommended items to bring in the backcountry: avalanche beacons, shovels, and probe poles for locating people buried in snow and a portable radio to call for help.
Travel in groups or with a buddy if possible. You will have more fun and be safer at the same time
Know your personal limits and your snowmobile
Ride at an appropriate speed for the terrain Ride only areas your machine is equipped to handle
Wear the appropriate snowmobile clothing. Recommended: several layers of water resistant clothing that fits properly and not get tangled in your equipment.
Wear a helmet with goggles or a face shield. Also cold proof gloves.
Have an emergency kit with you. (Especially longer for trips)
Recommended items are: map, a flashlight, first aid-kit, food, water, matches or lighter a small toolkit and a compass.
Drive at a proper speed.
Speed is a major factor in accidents, so drivers are advised to ride at moderate speeds and allow slow down when necessary .Give yourself enough time to react to sudden changes in trails....
With all this in mind :
Get out there and have Fun
|
