Snowmobile Safety Tips

A snowy trail may be just what you’ve been waiting for if you’re a snowmobiler. Snowmobiling can be a thrilling experience, but it can also be very dangerous if the proper safety precautions are not taken. Before you head out for a day on your snowmobile, it’s important to be prepared.

Here are some tips from us:

1.Take a snowmobile safety training:

These courses cover the basics in maintenance and repair of snowmobiles, proper and safe operation, history of snowmobiling, first aid, protection of the environment and the state laws. It is especially essential for first time riders.

2. Clothing & Equipment
Make sure you are dressed appropriately as weather conditions can change quickly. First start off with your layering systems, so anything that has wool or fleece stuff that will keep you warm even if you do get wet. Stay away from cotton because if it gets wet, it will freeze. We recommend waterproof snow pants to keep you dry, as well as insulated gloves and appropriate riding boots. Always wear a DOT approved motorcycle helmets to ensure maximum safety and protection. And don’t forget the safety equipment that doesn’t go on your body. The kit should contain: spare belt, spare spark plugs, manufacturer’s tool kit, extra wrench nuts & bolts sized for your sled, tow rope, pry bar, duct tape, wire jack-knife.

 3.Check the snowmobile before you fire it up

Replace these components at the beginning of snowmobile season, after your sled has been sitting for several months. Not everything on your machine needs to be replaced. A simple inspection of other possible trouble spots should do the trick. Give the following parts every time you ride to make sure everything is working properly: Lights, Steering, Throttle, Track, Battery, Drive belt, Skis, Chassis, Brakes. Check all of your snowmobile’s fluids and top off any that are running low. Make sure your snowmobile is running properly before heading out on the trail.

  4.Bring a Friend

Don’t go on a ride alone. Riding with a buddy or family is not only more amusing, but also, safer

  5. Be Smart

Don’t drink and drive. Snowmobiling requires alertness and attention. Alcohol can force you to drive too fast. Consumption of alcohol and excessive speed are the two most common contributing factors in fatal snowmobile accidents. Don’t let alcohol be a contributing factor to your fate.

Watch for Ice

Don’t ride your snowmobile over a frozen lake or river. You may risk falling through the ice or having much less traction that you do on snow. Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. If you must travel over lakes and rivers then consider using a buoyant snowmobile suit which will help you reach the closest ice surface. In addition, if other snowmobilers enter the ice from another direction, collisions may result.

   We hope these snowmobile safety tips lead to a fun and safe riding experience.