Every year, hundreds of snowmobilers lose their lives in accidents that could have been prevented by taking a few basic safety precautions. Again this year, there have been more tragic incidents involving snowmobiling. Ontario Provincial Police say last winter marked the
highest number of snowmobile-related deaths the force has responded to in almost 15 years.
With the weather yo-yo-ing, it is even more important to review these six commandments if you're going out on a snowmobile:
I shall check the ice conditions before venturing out
Always check the ice conditions and make sure it is
at least 25 centimetres thick before driving a snowmobile onto a body of water. Snowmobiles are heavy, and ice must be thick enough to support their weight.
- Transparent blue ice is the most solid, whereas grey ice is a sign of danger because it indicates the presence of water.
- Do not go out on ice that has recently frozen, melted and refrozen.
- Ice formed on top of a river with a strong current can never be considered 100% safe.
- When the thickness of the ice has been checked, respect the signs.
- Ice conditions can change very quickly. Therefore, if you must recross a body of water after a full day of snowmobiling, make sure to check the ice conditions before doing so.
I shall wear a helmet and a lifejacket
Only 3 per cent of snowmobilers who died as the result of immersion were wearing a flotation device such as a life jacket or survival suit. Also, don’t forget to wear warm clothing to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
I shall avoid alcohol
The confirmed or suspected consumption of alcohol played a role in 58% of the deaths of snowmobilers aged 15 years and older. Do not consume alcohol before or during an outing and postpone your outing if you feel tired.
I shall be accompanied
- Do not ride alone on frozen bodies of water. Always travel with at least one other snowmobiler so that they can assist you if needed.
- Talk about rescue procedures before you leave, to ensure that all snowmobilers know how to safely carry out a rescue.
- Follow the shoreline and maintain a distance of 15 metres between snowmobiles.
I shall share my itinerary before setting out
Don’t forget to tell someone the details of your trip (who is in your group, your itinerary, your expected times of departure and return and the stops planned along the way).
I shall carry safety equipment
Always have rescue equipment at your disposal, such as an ice pick, a rope, a mobile phone (in a watertight container) and a first aid kit in case of emergency.
It’s also good to have a flashlight handy, as well as waterproof matches or a lighter, a toolbox, candles and a survival blanket.
These few basic rules can save you a lot of trouble, and even your life. We also recommend you take
a first aid course and
download our first aid app so you can help your fellow snowmobilers in the event of an accident or if you run into trouble.
Happy snowmobiling!
Photo credit: Joe Ross on Flickr