Important Snowmobile Safety Tips
It is important that before you depart on your snowmobile, you double check the weather conditions. If a major snow storm is about to hit, it may be a good idea to put off your ride until better weather. Keep in mind that during windy conditions whiteouts may occur, making it unable for you to see debris or other riders.
Make sure your snowmobile is in proper working condition. You way even wish to carry a first aid kit and spare parts kit, just in case your machine breaks down.
Dress properly when going on a snowmobile ride. No matter how far you plan on traveling, it is important that you are properly dressed for the cold weather. Loose clothing is a bad idea because it may get caught on your snowmobile or other objects surrounding you. Eye protection and a helmet are also essential to a rider’s safety. Your local department stores or sports stores may carry insulated boots, snowsuits, and jackets meant specifically for wintertime activities.
If possible travel with a friend. The buddy system is the best way to help prevent a disaster. If your snowmobile ends up breaking down or you are involved in an accident, having another party present could possibly save your life or at least call for help.
Always stay on marked snowmobile trails. If snowmobiling is a popular activity in your area, your town is more than likely to have marked snowmobile trails. These trails are often maintained by local snowmobile clubs to provide you with a safe and secure place to ride. These trails are often populated with snowmobilers; therefore, if you run into a problem you are more likely to receive help from another snowmobiler.
When crossing a road or railroad, it is extremely important you check out your surroundings before crossing. Depending on the conditions, it may be difficult to spot oncoming traffic. If you are in a line of snowmobilers ready to cross a street, it is also important that you look too. Just because the first snowmobilers at the road did not spot an approaching vehicle, does not mean that one may not be on the way.
Never cross a lake, pond, or stream that you are unfamiliar with. Just because the water looks like it is frozen over and able to hold your sled, doesn’t not mean it actually will. Unfortunately, some deaths occur because snowmobilers and their sleds fall into the water. This is another great example why you should be traveling with a friend, they may possibly be able to save your life.
Never become intoxicated and continue to operate your snowmobile. In my area, many snowmobile trails pass through local bars. Although these bars do offer snowmobilers a place to rest, many take it upon themselves to start drinking. Alcohol can impair your vision and your reaction time, something that is extremely important while operating a snowmobile.
If you are riding during the night or evening hours it is important to make sure that all of your lights work properly. You may intend on returning home before dark; however, your sled should always be prepared for nightfall. If you are following other individuals make sure you leave a safe distance between each other. Darkness makes it hard to see hand signals, a way that many snowmobilers choose to communicate. In addition, your clothing should also have some sort of reflective material present.
If carried out in a safe matter, snowmobiling can be a fun activity or sport for many individuals during the winter. Always remember to inform someone where you will be traveling and give them an estimated return time. Also remember to carry a cell phone with you and use your common sense. Be careful and ride safe.
