16
SAFETY
Operator Safety
Avalanches
Snowmobilers should always be properly trained and equipped before
traveling in mountainous terrain:
• Take an avalanche class
• Travel with experienced people
• Travel on designated trails
• Make sure each person is equipped
with a shovel, probe and avalanche
beacon.
You don’t have to be snowmobiling on a
slope for an avalanche to occur. Be aware
that all of the snow is connected. You may be riding on a flat slope or
snow covered road, but if the snowpack above is unstable enough you
can trigger an avalanche on a steeper slope above you. Always be aware
of snow conditions above you as you travel in mountainous terrain.
Before riding in mountainous terrain, call or log on to your local ava-
lanche advisory to get current weather and snow stability information.
For more information about avalanche training and avalanche condi-
tions, contact local law enforcement in your area, or visit the American
and Canadian online avalanche centers at www.avalanche.org.
