10 Pro Tips for Snowmobile Safety

Snowmobiling offers exciting opportunities for experienced and novice riders. Cinematic landscapes, long-distance trips, and outdoor activities are a great mix. Snowmobiling is never boring, and can be enjoyed solo or with a group of like-minded friends. But neglecting safety while riding a snowmobile can lead to serious injuries.

10 Pro Tips for Snowmobile Safety
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Becoming an experienced rider requires a lot of practice and patience. You will also need to learn safety rules before engaging in this unique wintertime activity. From taking a safety class to having a special snowmobile storage box filled with essentials, there are basic recommendations you should always follow if you want to stay well-prepared.

How To Stay Safe While Driving a Snowmobile

Two major cases that contribute to more than 50% of snowmobiling-related injuries are alcohol use and reckless driving. Learn the laws and regulations in your area regarding driving a snowmobile and avoid breaking them. Here are other pro tips you should take a look at if you want to be a responsible rider.

Don't ride in unknown or dangerous surroundings. Never attempt snowmobiling in bad weather, heavy snowstorms, and low visibility conditions. Use well-prepared trails. Avoid venturing into unknown territory, especially if you lack a map. As a rule of thumb, always check the route in advance and try to learn the map.

Use the Buddy System. Solo riding is not the best option for freshly-minted snowmobilers. You might need assistance or guidance from time to time. While traveling in a group is much safer, avoid getting too close to other drivers. If you do that, you risk colliding with others and falling off your snowmobile. Don't hesitate to lend your help or call more experienced riders if somebody else gets in trouble.

Never ride under the influence. Many people don't take snowmobiles seriously because they see them only as recreational vehicles. But average snowmobiles reach 100-120 miles per hour, and high-powered models can easily top 150 mph. Drunk riders severely underestimate the speed of their vehicles. Medicine and recreational drugs can also impact your coordination and balance. If you don't want to roll over or hit a tree, wait until you sober up.

Get a spacious and durable snowmobile cargo box. You need to have a few essential items, like tools and accessories, basic repair and first aid kits, flares, and a shovel. Throw in a couple of emergency rations and some bottled water. Shop around and see what kind of cargo box is a better fit for your ride. It should be waterproof and dirt-resistant. Look for reviews or ask an experienced snowmobiler to accompany you to the store.

If you want a model preferred by experienced drivers, you will never go wrong with a Ski-Doo cargo box. It's sturdy, has enough capacity for essential items, and can withstand harsh conditions. The best thing about these cargo boxes is their relatively low price. Make a list of items you should put in the cargo box. Never go for a ride without your license, safety certificate, high-energy food rations, or medications you need to take in addition to the usual first aid items. Keep your phone charged!

Protect your body from the elements. Riding a snowmobile leaves you exposed to wind, low temperatures, water, snow, and dirt. Your regular winter clothes won't do. Choose quality snowmobile apparel and riding gear that will keep you warm and dry. Get a reliable helmet, a comfortable face mask, and a pair of gloves with a good grip.

Don't get too excited by speed. It's a tip directed mostly at novice riders, but even pros should not forget about it. Yes, going 100 miles per hour through snow-covered plains is extremely satisfying, but unless you are well-prepared and familiar with the trail, you shouldn't attempt speeding up right away. You should learn to keep your balance, spot obstacles from a distance, and avoid them. If you move too fast, you will not pay attention to trail signs or other riders going in your direction.

Trespassing is strictly forbidden. There are many designated trails you can choose from. If you want to ride through someone's private property, get a landowner's permission first. Icy surfaces are another no-go zone. In rare cases, if the ice is thick enough, you may attempt crossing a frozen body of water. But don't forget to put your life jacket on.

Don't be afraid of emergencies. Riders who get in trouble are usually under-prepared. But if you have a reliable emergency kit that includes candles, waterproof matches, a flashlight with spare batteries, a blade, cords, a compass, and a map, you will do fine even if your ride breaks down in the middle of a trail. Keep a small fire extinguisher with you to put out engine fires.

Following these tips can be the difference between an enjoyable ride and getting life-threatening injuries. Experienced riders arrange their snowmobiling trips in advance. Be prepared and stay safe!