Snowmobile Safety...

HERE ARE SOME SAFETY TIPS FOR SNOWMOBILING:

• Always Practice Winter Safety. 

• Carry a first aid kit and an emergency survival kit.

• Ensure that children wear a helmet - Parents should too.  Most places have laws with respect to helmets on snowmobiles.  See Helmet Safety

• Maintain control and never go too fast.

• Leave an itinerary with someone so they know where you are going and when you are expected back.

• Keep a trail map with you and know where you are. Stay on marked trails.

• Be aware of the snow conditions and avalanche warnings.

• Make sure the equipment is well maintained and appropriate for the age and ability of the user.

• Courses are available to learn safe operating procedures for snowmobiles.

• The American Academy of Pediatrics ("AAP") recommends that children under 16 years of age should not operate a snowmobiles as adolescents and children may not have the strength and skill to operate them safely.  Children should always be supervised by an Adult when using snowmobiles.

• The AAP also recommends that children under 6 are not strong enough to be transported safely on snowmobiles.  NEVER CARRY MORE THAN ONE PASSENGER.

• Snowmobilers can suffer hearing loss from excess engine noise.  Limit children's exposure to this noise.

• Ensure children do not touch hot surfaces on machines and keep away from gasoline and other chemicals.

• Never take children on lakes and rivers.  Watch for hazards such as tree stumps, fences, and crossing other trails.  Proceed at a safe speed and use caution on unfamiliar trails.

• Consider pagers and a cell phone (keep them inside your jacket so the battery is kept warm).

• Snowmobiles should not be used to tow a tie, tub, sled or saucer.  Only specifically designed tow carts should be used.

• Never Snowmobile alone.

• Consider carrying a cell phone in case of emergency.  Keep it inside your coat so it remains warm and the battery doesn't drain from the cold.

• Avoid scarves, loose clothing and tie up long hair that can get caught on trees or in equipment. 

• Ensure Children are well away when loading and unloading machines.

• HAVE FUN!!!