Articles

Stay Safe While Snowmobiling

< Back to main list

Some common sense tips

According to the Canada Safety Council, alcohol, speed and darkness are common factors in snowmobile accidents.

A safe snowmobiling season is an enjoyable one. With a little common sense and some basic precautions, you can make sure your snowmobiling excursions are pleasant and injury-free.

Know the rules and regulations

There are a number of provincial laws and regulations governing snowmobile use. It is important to know and follow them. You should consult the Transport Canada website for more information on the requirements for operating a snowmobile. Among the most important are the following:

Register and insure your sled. Just as for other vehicles such as your car, snowmobiles must be properly registered and insured. In some provinces, there are exceptions to the insurance requirements for snowmobiles driven exclusively on private property. Make sure to find out what the requirements are in your province.

Ride sober. Operating a snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is punishable under the Criminal Code of Canada. The same rules and penalties as for impaired driving apply. Anyone convicted of driving a snowmobile while impaired loses all driving privileges for car, truck, motorcycle and off-road vehicles as well as for snowmobiles. This means that if you drink and ride, you put both your driver’s license and your insurability at risk.

Wear a helmet. Note that helmet use is compulsory for snowmobilers. Make sure your helmet is safety-certified, fits properly and is in good condition. Choose a helmet designed for snowmobiling; it should have a visor for winter use. Newer helmets also have devices for controlling condensation.

Light it up. If you plan to drive at night, you must have a headlight and taillight on your sled.
 

Before you set out

Adequate planning helps make your ride safer. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Be sure to tell someone where you’re headed and what time you expect to arrive.
  • Never ride alone. Always take someone with you.
  • Inspect your vehicle to make sure it is in good mechanical condition. Follow the “pre-op” checklist in your owner’s manual.
  • Dress properly.
  • Take a first-aid and survival kit with you.
  • If you are heading for avalanche-prone areas, always check local conditions before you leave. Additional equipment such as an avalanche transceiver and probes may be required. Information can be found at www.avalanche.ca.
     

When you’re out riding

For maximum enjoyment and safety, follow these tips when you hit the trails.

  • Stay on snowmobile trails wherever possible. Keep to the right side. Never ride on railway tracks.
  • Obey the trail speed limits.
  • Ride within your abilities and your machine’s. Don’t push yourself or your sled beyond the point where you feel in control and secure at all times. Ride at a speed that enables you to enjoy the scenery and the outdoor experience.
  • Become familiar with your riding area. Consult with other snowmobilers. Use a map.
  • Expect the unexpected. Watch out for things like trees and branches on the trail or obstacles beneath the snow.
  • Be careful when crossing roads. Always come to a complete stop before crossing. Look both ways and make sure no traffic is approaching.
  • Keep alert. It is a good idea to take a break after several hours of snowmobiling. The wind and the vibration of the machine can dull your senses and slow your reaction times.
  • Be aware that snow blindness can occur from light overload. High quality sunglasses can help avoid this problem.
     

At night

Keep in mind that a high percentage of snowmobiling incidents occur after dark.

  • Slow your pace down. Your visibility is limited by how far ahead your headlight shines. This makes it difficult to spot hazards.
  • Wear clothing with reflective trim.
  • Ride in familiar areas. It is much easier to become lost or disoriented after dark.
  • Never ride alone.
     

Ice riding

Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. Ice conditions are never guaranteed. The rule of thumb for ice riding is: “If you don’t know, don’t go.” But if you must cross a frozen lake or river, keep these tips in mind:

  • Ask local authorities or your local club about ice conditions first, and then stay on the packed or marked trails.
  • Don’t stop until you reach the other side.
  • If you hit slush, don’t slow down. If you are following someone who hits slush, veer off and make your own path.
  • Consider wearing a buoyant snowmobile suit and carrying a set of picks that can be used to grip the edge of the ice.
Back to top