Snowmobiling Safety Tips
OFSC Responsible Riding Actions
- stay on OFSC trails
- close gates where applicable
- report property damage of any kind
- avoid riding late at night too close to homes
- leave tracks not trash
- help preserve small shrubs and saplings
- avoid disturbing domestic animals or wildlife
- be polite and respectful of landowners and their families
- leave private property when asked to do so
- use the trail only for snowmobiling in the winter
- stay off the trail during all other seasons
- obtain permission before camping, setting a fire or having
cookout along the trail
- use toilet facilities provided by clubs or at local pitstops
- do not contribute to noise pollution by altering stock exhaust
pipes
- obey the speed limit
- refrain from obnoxious or boisterous behavior
- do not drink and ride.
Accidents Give All Snowmobilers a Bad Name
Most snowmobiling accidents result from operator error, overconfidence
or inexperience. Males aged 15 to 34 are the highest risk group. The main
contributing are:
- alcohol
- speed
- darkness
- unfamiliar terrain or ice, and
- off-trail riding on roads or lakes
Night Riding
Night time rides can be some of the most peacefull rides but than can also be the most deadly if caution is not taken.
9 ot of 10 fatalities occur after dark. Forward visibility is reduced by darkness and it is much more difficult to spot and
identify potential hazards in time. Overdriving headlights can also be a serious problem, so slow down when snowmobiling after
dark. Becoming disoriented or lost is much more likely at night.
Always wear outer clothing with reflective trim on the arms, back and helmet. Never ride alone at night. Always dress in your
full snowmobiling outfit even if your intended destination is just next door.
Snowmobiling on Ice
Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. Wherever possible, avoid riding on frozen lakes and rivers
because ice conditions are never a safe bet. Ice conditions can change in a period of several hours If you must cross ice, ask
first, then stay on the packed or marked trail. Don't stop until you reach shore. If you hit slush, don't let off the throttle.
If you are following someone who hits slush, veer off to make your own path. If you must travel over lakes and rivers then consider
using a buoyant snowmobile suit which will assist you to reach the closest ice surface. Also consider carrying a set of picks which
will help you grip the edge of the ice more easily As a rule of thumb, "If you don't know, don't go."
If you do break through the ice, don't panic. Follow these self rescue tips:
- Kick vigorously into a horizontal position and swin 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.
Know Your Hand Signals
Hand signals help everyone and help to prevent accidents. Follow the link below, you might be surprised at what you are
missing out on.
Know your Hand Signals
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