Defensive Snowmobiling
Engine noise and your helmet may impair your hearing, so be extra alert for danger. Never assume what another snowmobiler will do. Your safety is in your hands, so watch out for:
- Obstacles hidden by the snow.
- Trees and branches on the trail.
- Slow grooming equipment.
- Oncoming sleds.
- Other trail users (skiers, walkers, and so on).
- Wildlife Trail wash outs and flooding.
- Snow banks and moguls.
- Road and railway crossings.
- Unexpected corners, intersections and stops.
- Bridges, open water and unsafe ice.
- Logging operations.
Survival Kits
You can easily snowmobile beyond immediate help, so basic repair and survival kits, expandable for longer tours are essential. The Repair Kit should contain:
- spare belt
- spare spark plugs
- manufacturer's tool kit
- extra wrenches nuts & bolts sized for your sled
- tow rope
- pry bar
- duct tape
- wire
- extra ignition key
- work gloves
Night Riding
A disproportionate number of snowmobiling incidents, including nine out of ten fatalities, occur after dark. Most often night riding also includes alcohol consumption and excessive speed. Forward visibility is reduced by darkness and it is much more difficult to spot and identify potential hazards in time. Over driving headlights can also be a serious problem, so slow down when snowmobiling after dark and ensure headlights and taillights are working and free of snow. Snowmobile headlights are adequate for reduced speed only. Becoming disoriented or lost is much more likely at night, don't travel on unfamiliar ground at night. Always wear outer clothing with reflective trim on the arms, back and helmet, never ride alone at night and always carry a flashlight or flare for emergency signaling.
Recommended Minimum Ice Thickness
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- It is critical to evaluate the ice quality and type before travelling ON ice.
- Sufficient clear hard new ice is the only kind of ice recommended for travel
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AVOID:
- slushy ice
- ice on or near moving water (i.e. rivers, currents)
- ice that has thawed and refrozen
- layered or rotten ice caused by sudden temperature changes
Other risk factors that weaken or "rot" ice:
- Snow on ice that acts as a blanket to prevent hardening of ice
- Pressure ridges due to wind, current or ice pressure
NO ICE IS WITHOUT SOME RISK....MINIMIZE YOUR RISK!!!!
Ice and Snowmobiles
Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. Wherever possible, avoid riding on frozen lakes and rivers because ice conditions are never a safe bet. Ice conditions can change in a period of several hours If you must cross ice, ask first, then stay on the packed or marked trail. Don't stop until you reach shore. If you hit slush, don't let off the throttle. If you are following someone who hits slush, veer off to make your own path. If you must travel over lakes and rivers then consider using a buoyant snowmobile suit which will assist you to reach the closest ice surface. Also consider carrying a set of picks which will help you grip the edge of the ice more easily As a rule of thumb, "If you don't know, don't go."
Before You Travel
- Write down where you are going, your route, time of departure and return. Ensure your snowmobile is in good working condition, lots of gas and oil for your trip, spare drive belt and spark slugs.
- Your should never travel alone, always try to find a partner to travel with.
- Ensure you dress properly. Clothing should be put on in layers. If you become too hot and your clothing traps the moisture, you will become cold. Clothing should be put on in layers and be water repellent and wind proof.
- A helmet is recommended for all riders but is not required by law.
- Do not drink and drive. Alcohol is involved in 70% of snowmobiling related deaths. Alcoholic beverage consumption, combined with riding after dark are the leading causes of snowmobile related deaths.
Safety equipment is dependant on where and how long the ride will be. However, the following basic tools should be carried in the snowmobile at all times:
- One or two screw drivers and vice grips
- Orange garbage bags (can be seen from a distance. You can get in the bag to keep dry).
- Rags
- Adjustable Wrench
- Black electrical tape
- Set of open end wrenches
- Starter cord
- Spark plug
- Spare Belt
Always be prepared for an emergency. A good question to ask is, "Can I get back safely with the equipment I'm taking?" The following items are good to take.
- Extra key
- Pocket Knife (some carry an axe)
- Map, reliable compass
- Dry fruit, peanuts, raisins, high energy bar (no salt)
- Flares
- Space Blanket
- First Aid Kit
- 50 feet of 1/4" nylon rope
- Waterproof matches
- Snowshoes
- Flashlight
- Emergency Shelter
- Sun-Block Cream