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Winter Driving  |   Smart Snowmobiling

Accident Prevention

Smart Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling can be a great way to enjoy winter. Before you hit the trails, follow these rules to make for a safe and fun ride.

Testing ice thickness:

• 3" (7 cm) or less - STAY OFF
• 4" (10 cm) - ice fishing, walking, cross-country skiing
• 5" (12 cm) - one snowmobile or ATV
• 8"-12" (20-30 cm) - one car or small pickup
• 12"-15" (30-38 cm) - one medium truck (pickup or van)

Before you set out:

• Inform others of your destination and estimated arrival time.
• Inspect your snowmobile for mechanical integrity.
• Wear suitable clothing to prevent hypothermia - remember that children are particularly susceptible to the cold.
• Carry first-aid and survival kits.
• Check local avalanche conditions in avalanche-prone areas. You can check conditions on the web at www.avalanche.ca.

On the trail:

• Ride within your capabilities.
• Use snowmobile trails whenever and wherever practical.
• Stay on the right side of the trail.
• Reduce speed in unfamiliar territory.
• Exercise care when crossing roadways and railway tracks.

At night :

• Slow down! Your headlight limits how far ahead you can see. The slower you are travelling, the less distance you need to stop.
• Avoid driving along road shoulders where lights from either snowmobiles or vehicles can cause confusion.

Over lakes and rivers:

• Be aware of ice conditions.
• Wear flotation-type clothing.
• Remember to treat the outdoors with respect and be considerate of wildlife!

NEVER:

• Never drive a snowmobile if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs. "Don't drink and drive" applies to snowmobiles as to any motor vehicle.
• Never ride on railway tracks.
• Never ride alone.
• Never leave children unsupervised with "kiddie" snowmobiles.
• Never leave young children alone in cutters.
• Never travel with babies.

Source : Transport Canada-Road Safety-Safe Snowmobiling, Road Safety, January 2006.
Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2008.