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Railroad Crossing
Never ride on railroad tracks. It is illegal. Railroad tracks and railroad
rights-of-way are private property. A snowmobile is no match for a
train. When crossing a railroad track, stop, look and listen.
Night Rides
The amount of natural and artificial light at a given time can effect
your ability to see or to be seen. Nighttime snowmobiling is delight-
ful. It can be a unique experience if you acknowledge your reduced
visibility. Before you start, make certain your lights are clean and work
properly. Drive at speeds that will allow you to stop in time when you
see an unknown or dangerous object ahead. Stay on established
trails and
never
operate in unfamiliar territory. Avoid rivers and lakes.
Guy wires, barbed wire fences, cabled road entrances and other ob-
jects such as tree limbs are difficult to see at night. Never drive alone.
Always carry a flashlight. Keep away from residential areas and re-
spect the right of others to sleep.
Safari Riding
Before starting out, designate a “trail boss” to lead the party and
another person to follow-up at the end of the party. Ensure that all
members of the party are aware of the proposed route and destina-
tion. Make certain that you are carrying all necessary tools and equip-
ment and that you have sufficient fuel to complete the trip. Never
overtake the trail boss or, for that matter, any other snowmobile. Use
down-the-line hand signals to indicate hazards or intent of direction
change. Assist others whenever necessary.
It is always IMPORTANT to keep a safe distance between each snow-
mobile. Always maintain a safe interval and allow sufficient stopping
distance. Don’t be a tailgater. Know the position of the machine ahead.
Signals
If you intend to stop, raise either hand straight above your head. A
left turn is indicated by extending your left hand straight out in the
proper direction. For right turns, extend the left arm and raise the
hand to a vertical position so it forms a right angle at the elbow. Every
snowmobiler should relay any signal to the ones behind.
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