Ski-Doo Skandic SWT 2013, Operator'S Manual

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RIDING THE VEHICLE
New snow, animals, people, wind
and
snowmobiles can all trigger
an avalanche. Avoid high marking
or traversing steep terrain when
avalanche conditions are possible.
When in unstable snow conditions,
travel should be restricted to lower
angle slopes. Wind formed cornices
should be avoided. Staying off un-
stable conditions is the key to safe
mountain riding. Probably most impor-
tant is to be aware of the conditions
and dangers on a daily basis when in
the mountains. Check local avalanche
forecasts and threats each day before
heading out to ride and heed forecast-
ers advice.
You should always carry a snow shovel,
probe and avalanche beacon while rid-
ing on mountains. We recommend
that all mountain riders take a lo-
cal avalanche safety training course
to become more familiar with snow
conditions and learn how to properly
use their equipment.
Here are some web sites that can help
you finding important information:
– US: www.avalanche.org
– Europe: www.avalanches.org
– Canada: www.avalanche.ca
Slush
Slush should be avoided at all times.
Always check for slush before starting
across any lake or river. If dark spots
appear in your tracks, get off the ice
immediately. Ice and water can be
thrown rearward into the path of a fol-
lowing snowmobile. Getting a vehicle
out of a slush area is strenuous and in
some cases, impossible.
Fog or Whiteout Conditions
On land or water, fog or visibil-
ity-limiting snow can form. If you have
to proceed into the fog or heavy snow,
do so slowly with your lights on and
watch intently for hazards. If you are
not sure of your way, do not proceed.
Keep a safe distance behind other
snowmobilers to improve visibility and
reaction time.
Unfamiliar Territory
Whenever you enter an area that is
new to you, drive with extreme cau-
tion. Go slow enough to recognize
potential hazards such as fences or
fence posts, brooks crossing your
path, rocks, sudden dips, guy wires
and countless other obstacles which
could result in a termination of your
snowmobile ride.
Even when fol-
lowing existing tracks, be cautious.
Travel at a speed so you can see what
is around the next bend or over the top
of the hill.
Bright Sunshine
Bright sunny days can considerably
reduce your vision. The glare from
sun and snow may blind you to the ex-
tent that you cannot easily distinguish
ravines, ditches or other obstacles.
Goggles with colored lenses should al-
ways be worn under these conditions.
Unseen Obstruction
There may be obstructions hidden
beneath the snow. Driving off es-
tablished trails and in the woods re-
quires reduced speed and increased
vigilance. Driving too fast in an area
can make even minor obstacles very
hazardous. Even hitting a small rock
or stump could throw your snowmo-
bile out of control and cause injury to
its riders. Stay on established trails
to reduce your exposure to hazards.
Be safe, slow down and enjoy the
scenery.
Hidden Wires
Always be on the lookout for hidden
wires, especially in areas that may
have been farmed at one time or an-
other. Too many accidents have been
caused by running into wires in the
fields, guy wires next to poles and
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SAFETY INFORMATION
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