Snowmobiling has become a popular winter pastime in North America for many reasons. Key among these is the opportunity it provides for participants to spend time with friends and family, while taking in the scenic beauty of the wintry outdoors. In order to get the most out of their experience, snowmobilers must learn and follow the rules of snowmobile safety.
Unfortunately, snowmobile accidents, often caused by careless or reckless behavior, result in numerous injuries and deaths each year. For example, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, there were 23 snowmobile related deaths in Wisconsin alone last year, while Minnesota statistics recorded 10 deaths in 2008-2009.
With nearly 2.5 million registered snowmobiles expected to hit North American trails this season, it is important for all snowmobilers to ride with caution and follow safe snowmobiling practices.
Obey Snowmobile Rules and Regulations
Snowmobile laws vary by state and province. Some have age restrictions for snowmobile operation, while others require operators to carry a registration or license with them while snowmobiling. Snowmobilers should make certain they are aware of the local laws and regulations for any area in which they plan to ride.
Alcohol or drugs and snowmobiling do not mix. In most states and provinces, it is illegal to operate a snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs – and for good reason. As with motor vehicles, alcohol is a leading cause of snowmobile injuries and deaths. In addition to impeding a person’s ability to make good decisions and slowing their reaction time, alcohol also acts as a blood thinner, increasing the risk of hypothermia.
Wear Proper Clothing and Gear
All snowmobilers should invest in a snug-fitting, safety-certified helmet. Visors are also valuable when it comes to maintaining visibility while driving and protecting against wind chill and debris, although snowmobile goggles will also work.
Of course, warm clothing is essential. Snowmobilers should dress in layers to help them adjust to changing weather conditions if they are planning an extended trip. Warm gloves and boots are necessary, but scarves are not recommended as they can become tangled or caught, causing a safety hazard.
Plan a Safe Route and Never Ride Alone
One of the biggest draws to snowmobiling is the fact that it allows participants to access scenic landscapes that are otherwise inaccessible during the winter. However, this also means that it can be difficult for a snowmobiler to find help should an accident occur. For this reason, it is important to always snowmobile with a buddy, and to make others aware of the planned route so they know where to look should something go wrong.
There are more than 225,000 miles of groomed and marked trails in North America, designed to eliminate or identify hazards so that snowmobilers can proceed safely (trail maps can usually be obtained by contacting a local snowmobile club).
Whenever possible, snowmobilers should take advantage of their local trail system; however, situations may arise where a snowmobiler must take an unmarked route. Snowmobilers who plan to travel cross-country should make sure they are aware of any potential hazards, including roads, culverts, fences, etc. – in the area. They should also practice extra caution following a fresh snowfall – even in areas in which they are familiar – as the new snow may cover or hide dangerous obstacles.
Snowmobilers should be particularly cautious when crossing bodies of water. The first step to crossing a frozen lake or river is to make sure the ice is safe to cross. Along with impaired driving, drowning is a leading cause of snowmobile related deaths.
As a precaution, snowmobilers can wear floater suits and carry an ice pick. The ice pick should be attached to the person, not the machine. Snowmobilers should also become informed of proper safety procedures in case they or someone they are traveling with breaks through the ice, including how to get free of the water and how to prevent hypothermia.
By following these safe practices and using common sense, snowmobilers can get the most out of this winter activity and ensure they are around to enjoy the sport for seasons to come.
Trilby Henderson - After completing a BA in Journalism at the University of Regina, one of Canada's leading journalism schools, I spent several years working ...
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