7 Safety Tips All Owners of Ontario Snowmobiles Need to Know
The first snowfall of the year will be soon upon us (knock on wood!), which means being knowledgeable about snowmobile safety is in season! Riding Ontario snowmobiles can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also take a turn for the worst when you don’t follow the correct safety protocol. To help keep all our riders safe this winter, your leading Ontario snowmobile dealers are offering up these 7 tips!
Take an Ontario Snowmobiles Safety Course
Whether you’re a new rider getting into snowmobiles for your first time, or you’re a seasoned vet saddling up for another year of riding, you will surely benefit from a snowmobile safety course. These valuable classes teach you how to ride safely and responsibly by going over valuable techniques to avoid hazards.
Always Check the Weather
You should never get your snowmobile out for a ride before checking the weather forecast for the day. Certain conditions make it very unadvisable to ride your snowmobile, such as frozen trails, low wind chill, or a white out blizzard. If weather conditions aren’t favorable, you’ll be better off riding on another day.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Each time you ride a snowmobile, it is important to stay as warm and dry as possible. Any moisture that is allowed inside your clothing is sure to freeze, which will put you at risk of dangerous conditions like hypothermia. Wear goggles and a face shield to protect your face from wind, and always wear an approved helmet that complies with safety standards.
Inspect Your Snowmobile Before Each Ride
We recommend always keeping your snowmobile owner’s manual handy on each ride. This lays out the exact fuel and oil levels that you need to maintain, as well as maintenance for the battery, brakes, skis, throttle, headlights, taillights, and more. Also, let your snowmobile run for at least a minute before taking off.
Carry an Emergency Kit
It is impossible to know what will happen to you on any given snowmobile expedition. Not only could a rider be injured unexpectedly, but snowmobile parts could also fail or break. Keep a basic first aid kit for personal injury, which should include disinfecting wipes, bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, and Band-Aids. Also, carry an emergency kit with items like waterproof matches, a flashlight, compass, blanket, knife, and more.
Stay Alert
When operating Ontario snowmobiles, it’s important to always remain alert during your rides. Keep both eyes peeled for obstacles in your path, such as rocks, fallen trees, open water, animals, and other individuals. One small lapse in vigilance can lead to a dangerous crash.
Don’t Speed
Driving recklessly at high speeds will make it harder to react to obstacles and other unexpected circumstances of your expedition. Many trails have posted speed limits and it is always in your best interest to follow them. Snowmobile riders can still have a thrilling time riding their vehicles cautiously and safely.
At Bay Marine, we hope that these snowmobile safety tips will help all our customers enjoy a long winter filled with fun and safe riding experiences. As your #1 choice for Ontario snowmobile dealers, we are well acquainted with every safety measure that you need to know before the first snowfall. To learn more about our expansive inventory of thrilling Ontario snowmobiles, simply give Bay Marine a call today!
