14
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 machine 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. Always check with local
residents or authorities for general information on conditions when
traveling on lakes and streams that are strange to you. Before riding
your machine on a frozen body of water, be sure the ice is thick enough
to support the machine and its operator, as well as the force created by
a moving vehicle. You may drown if you and the snowmobile break
through the ice.
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.
