SAFETY
The following are some safety precautions you should take when riding.
Night Riding
If you plan on night riding, drive slowly and always wear outer clothing with reflective trim on the arms, back and helmet. Never ride alone at night. And always dress in your full snowmobiling outfit - even if your intended destination is not far away.
Ice & Snowmobiling
Wherever possible, avoid riding on frozen lakes and rivers because ice conditions are never a safe bet. If you do break through the ice, don't panic. Follow these self-rescue tips:
Get yourself into a horizontal position and swim to the nearest ice edge.
Place hands/arms on unbroken ice while kicking hard to propel your body onto the ice, like a seal.
Once clear, stay flat and roll away to stronger ice.
Stand, keep moving and find shelter fast.
Don't Drink And Ride
Snowmobiling requires constant care, caution and attention, so the OFSC endorses a Zero Tolerance position while riding. Don't drink and ride. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your perception, slow your reaction time and limit your ability to control your sled at that critical moment when your life is in the balance.
Operating your sled under the influence of alcohol is punishable under the Criminal Code of Canada. If convicted of driving a snowmobile while impaired, you could lose all driving privileges (car, truck, motorcycle, off-road vehicles and snowmobile).
Dressing Right
With high-tech winter wear and proper layering, winter comfort is easy. Start with polypropylene and thermal under layers that release moisture while retaining heat. Consider wearing a buoyant snowmobile suit if you plan on traveling across ice as it will assist to keep you afloat, but most of all help to protect you against hypothermia. Carry extra clothing, socks, boot liners and mitts for layering. A helmet and face shield combat cold and hazards, while waterproof, insulated boots and leather snowmobile mitts provide warmth and protection.
Defensive Snowmobiling
Engine noise and your helmet may impair your hearing, so be extra alert for danger. Never assume what another snowmobiler will do. Your safety is in your hands, so watch out for:
Obstacles hidden by the snow
Trees and branches on the trail
Slow grooming equipment
Oncoming sleds
Other trail users (skiers, walkers)
Wildlife
Trail wash outs and flooding
Snow banks and moguls
Road and railway crossings
Unexpected corners, intersections and stops
Bridges, open water and unsafe ice
Logging operations
