What Do I Need to Know Before Riding a Snowmobile?

If you are planning on riding a snowmobile on a winter trip, it is important to know a few things first. The first thing you need to do is find a safe place to stay. Also, you need to prepare yourself by putting on the proper layers. Finally, it is a good idea to avoid following other vehicles too closely. You should also keep an eye out for avalanche routes.

Layers are Important

If you're planning on riding a snowmobile in cold weather, you need to know how to dress in layers. These layers are crucial to your safety as well as your comfort. The more layers you use, the better you'll be able to adapt your internal temperature.

Your base layer should be a lightweight material, such as a synthetic blend. This will help your body breathe, and wick moisture away from your body. It should fit snugly, though not too tight.

Wear a pair of gloves, too. Gloves should be made of wool or a similar fiber to keep your hands warm. They should also be water-resistant to prevent you from getting cold.

You should also wear an insulated bib. A bib has shoulder straps and sits on your chest like suspenders. It offers a full barrier against the cold, and is more convenient to remove than a riding suit.

Avoid Following too Closely

While snowmobiling is a fun and exciting activity, it also presents a great deal of risk. A crash could be catastrophic, resulting in brain trauma, spinal cord damage and even death. Luckily, there are a few simple safety tips to help you avoid a catastrophe. Among them is keeping a close eye on your surroundings.

The first rule of thumb is to stay in your lane. This is especially important if you are riding in a group. Ride in the left hand lane if you're in a two-seater or in the right if you're in a four-seater. Be sure to take your time and slow down, especially when you're traveling at night.

The best way to avoid this type of incident is to always keep a sharp eye out for other vehicles. Also, be careful when merging with other traffic. Depending on the road conditions, merging with slower traffic requires more room.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol has been linked to a high number of fatal accidents in snowmobiling. It can slow your reaction time, affect your coordination and vision, and increase your chances of hypothermia. Snowmobiling requires quick reflexes and alertness.

While the majority of snowmobile fatalities involve alcohol, speeding and recklessness are also factors. Other aggravating factors include spotty cell service and imprecise location information.

Alcohol has been linked to 70 percent of all snowmobile fatalities. Most states prohibit operating a snowmobile while under the influence of alcohol.

Wisconsin's conservation wardens have adopted a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and riding. They will ask snowmobilers to display a zero-tolerance sticker on their vehicles. The law is part of a larger safety initiative.

The CCSO (Capital City Snowmobile Safety Organization) focuses on smart choices when snowmobiling. It also launches International Safety Week every January. CCSO has partnered with Mothers Against Drunk Driving to promote alcohol-free riding.

Avoid Avalanche Routes

When you plan a winter trip, make sure to avoid avalanche routes. Avalanches are dangerous, and can kill you. Snowmobiles sometimes stuck in snow. Among the common causes are heavy snowfall, freezing rain, wind, and human weight.

Before you go, be sure to obtain proper safety training. You should also know how to read a map and a compass, and wear an avalanche transceiver. Using an avalanche receiver can help you save your life in an emergency. Read here more about what you shouldn't do while riding snowmobile.

The best way to keep from getting caught in an avalanche is to travel in a group. You'll find it easier to locate other members, and you'll be less likely to get lost in the wilderness.

It is also wise to keep in mind that you may not be able to outrun an avalanche. Large avalanches travel at 60 to 80 mph. They are difficult to avoid, and they can push you into crevasses or an alpine lake.

Find a Snowmobile-friendly Place to Stay

When looking for a snowmobile friendly place to stay, there are plenty of options available. You can choose from hotels, cottages, and outfitter cabins to name a few. Some places even offer snowmobile rental services.

For a savvy snowmobile enthusiast, it's not difficult to find a suitable destination for a weekend jaunt or a week-long vacation. The state of Maine, for example, offers over a dozen options to choose from. Many of these properties offer easy access to ITS (Interstate Trail System) and club trail systems.

In fact, the state of Maine offers more snowmobile trails than any other state in the northeast. With more than 12,000 miles of trail, it's no wonder many snowmobilers head to the 'Bay State for an afternoon or two.