For the beginner or novice snowmobiler a training course or thorough introduction to the machine is advised. Today’s snowmobiles come with electric starters and a backup pull-cord starter.
In the USA, laws vary from state to state and sometimes even county to county. The snowmobile rider should research in advance what requirements may exist to legally operate an off highway recreational vehicle.
Equipment for a Snowmobile Ride
Riding a snowmobile in cold, winter weather can prove a challenge to keep the body warm. The rider should dress appropriately:
- Layer clothing such as long-johns and insulated underwear
- Choose water resistant and insulated outerwear and footwear – boots, coat, overalls or bibs
- Neck warmer, insulated gloves or mittens
Safety equipment may be required by law in some areas, including but not limited to:
- DOT-rated helmet
- Reflective outerwear
Accessories for a snowmobile ride include:
- Hand and foot warmers
- Insulated or battery-operated heated socks
- Goggles
- Head mask
- Ear warmers
- Wireless radio within the helmet – to communicate with other riders in the group
- Anti-fog sprays and wipes - to prevent goggles, glasses and helmet visors from fogging up
Snowmobile Safety
The rider should take special precaution to not put limbs or body parts near the moving parts of the snowmobile. Special sleds that are designed to hold two riders can be a safe and enjoyable way for two people to snowmobile together. Single rider sleds should never be used by two people – the second rider can fall off and risk bodily harm from the snowmobile’s track or from being run over by a close-following sled.
Other safety considerations on the snowmobile:
- The driver should understand basic snowmobile mechanics in case of failure for the electric ignition starter or a slipped or broken belt
- Safety engine cut-off feature allows the rider of many machines to connect a wire to their jacket in case of accidental ejection from the sled – the machine will roll to a stop if the rider is launched or falls off
Rules of the Road for Snowmobiling
In addition to any local riding laws the basic rules of the trail should be observed by all riders.
- Always ride to the right of the trail
- When riding on a designated portion of a paved road stay to the left of the road
- Drive no faster than 10 miles per hour (MPH) when crossing roads or driving near pedestrians
- Use hand signals when passing other snowmobiles on the trail: hold the index finger up to indicate when another snowmobile is in the party, a closed fist is held up for a solitary sled or the end of a party of snowmobilers
- Keep an eye out for grooming machines and wildlife on the trail at all times
- Avoid riding over water crossings unless a bridge is in place
Snowmobilers Having Fun
Whether the rider is conservative or adventurous, snowmobilers find the sport very pleasurable. In many cases a snowmobiler can reach very remote destinations that wheeled vehicles would be unable to. This gives the rider the unique opportunity to experience and enjoy nature’s winter wonderland without a crowd. Respect for the environment and wildlife of the area is necessary for riders to continue to enjoy the occasion.
A flat, open clearing in the forest is a great venue for the riders to increase their speed and play around. Races and stunts can be conducted in a clearing without fear of a blindspot on a trail.
Overall the sport of snowmobiling is fun and safe when riders obey local laws, general rules and ride as a defensive and sober driver. The sport can turn dangerous, and even deadly, when the rider stops observing the guidelines and throws caution to the wind.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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