Wednesday, February 13, 2008

SAULT STE MARIE OPP TOP TEN SNOWMOBILE SAFETY TIPS

(Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.) Snowmobiling is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy our winter season. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, snowmobiling is the number one cause of winter sports and recreation related severe injuries.

Riding responsibly is a personal choice that must be made every time someone starts up a sled. Snowmobile operators are urged to use common sense, exercise caution and slow down. If you don’t know, don’t go.
1) ALWAYS RIDE SOBER: Operating a snowmobile requires all your faculties, alertness and awareness. Alcohol compromises your ability to drive responsibly. Stay safe…stay sober
2) TRAVEL IN GROUPS: Whenever possible travel in a group so that if something unforeseen occurs, your fellow snowmobilers can render immediate assistance.
3) HAVE A PLAN: Even if you are out for a short trip, tell someone your destination, estimated time of arrival, and the route you are going to take. These details can be very useful to emergency services personnel who try to locate overdue snowmobilers.
4) CARRY AN EMERGENCY PACK: A small first aid kit is an essential item. A pack containing gas line anti-freeze, spare spark plugs and wrench, and a spare drive belt is invaluable. As well, carrying granola bars or dried fruit can sustain a stranded snowmobiler for extended periods of time. A cell phone can be a life saver as well.

5) SPEED KILLS: Speed has been determined as an overwhelming contributing factor in collisions. Remember you are SHARING the trail system with other users. Wildlife, cross country skiers, and other snowmobilers are but a few of the examples of what might cross your path without notice. Lower speeds allow for you to react in time.

6) USE GOOD JUDGEMENT: Be familiar with your surroundings. If you are traveling on trails that are new to you, ride accordingly. Ice surfaces are always unpredictable. They are prone to stress cracks, early thaws, slush pockets, and open water areas. Be wary of these situations while operating your sled.

7) WEAR AN APPROVED HELMET: Generally, collisions occur without warning. Proper safety equipment allows for a reduction in the severity of any collision related injury.

8) DRESS FOR THE ELEMENTS: Hypothermia and frost bite can cause severe medical emergency situations to occur. Check weather reports for deep freeze forecasts or other weather warnings before taking to the trails.

9) MAINTAIN YOUR SLED: Proper lighting to the front and to the rear enhance visibility and reduce the likelihood of a collision. Braking, steering and exhaust systems all require regular maintenance to enhance safety.

10) BE RIGID WHILE TOWING: If your are pulling a sleigh or any other conveyance with your snowmobile, a rigid tow bar is not only suggested, it’s the law. Sudden stops are not unheard of while snowmobiling. A rigid tow bar reduces collisions and related injury.