16
SAFETY
Operator Safety
Driver Awareness
Slow down when traveling near poles,
posts, or other obstacles. Be especially
alert if you’re snowmobiling after dark.
Always be on the alert for wire fences.
Single strands are especially dangerous,
since there may be a great distance
between posts. Guy wires on utility poles
are also difficult to distinguish.
Make sure the way is clear before crossing
railroads and other roads and highways.
The noise of your snowmobile will drown
out the sound of approaching vehicles.
Look ahead, behind, and to both sides
before turning or crossing railroad tracks
or highways. Steep embankments may
also hide your view. Always leave yourself
a way out.
Variances in snow depth and/or water currents may result in uneven ice
thickness. You may drown if you break through the ice. Never travel on
frozen bodies of water unless you have first verified that the ice is suffi-
ciently thick to support the weight and moving force of the snowmobile,
you and your cargo, together with any other vehicles in your party.
Always check with local authorities and residents to confirm ice condi-
tions and thickness over your entire route. Snowmobile operators
assume all risk associated with ice conditions on frozen bodies of water.
When teaching inexperienced operators to ride, set up a predetermined
course for practice. Make sure they know how to drive and control the
snowmobile before allowing them to make longer trips. Teach them
proper snowmobile courtesy, and enroll them in driver’s training and
safety courses sponsored by local or state organizations.