Avalanche Safety for Snowmobiles
As one of the most thrilling winter sports out there, snowmobile riding attracts winter sport enthusiasts to the mountains and slopes. Anyone who heads into the hills should be cautious, though, as even with soft snow all around, you can still face some danger. One of the biggest problems snowmobilers face is the threat of avalanches. These may happen randomly due to shifting temperatures and loosening snowpack, but they can also be triggered by the irresponsible actions of some riders. Snowmobile riders are at a higher risk of being trapped in avalanches since their vehicles can dislodge snow as they ride.
Most avalanche injuries and fatalities occur because riders failed to prepare properly and they took unnecessary risks while riding. The folks at Road Track & Trail of Big Bend, Wisconsin, want to ensure that you’re riding your snowmobile safely and responsibly, so we’ve created this guide to avalanche safety specifically for snowmobiles. Prepare yourself before you hit the slopes and you’ll be able to have a great time while remaining safe!
Gear
Equipping yourself properly is a great way to stay safe on any winter adventure. When you’re snowmobiling and facing the threat of avalanches, you want to have a few specific pieces of equipment with you in case of an emergency. Avalanche transceivers are devices you wear either as an attachment or as part of your snow suit. These tools send and receive radio data to act as beacons when you become trapped beneath the snow. Some high-quality models can even transmit your vitals to let others know if you have survived the avalanche.
Each member of your snowmobile party should carry a small collapsible shovel and a probe in case they’re required to rescue someone else. Since you won’t have time to call for help if anyone does become trapped, you’ll have to work quickly to dig your companions out before they run out of oxygen or succumb to the cold. The best chance of a rescue in these conditions is by other members of the party. Make sure that the avalanche airbag on your snowmobile is maintained and fully charged before you head out so that it can be quickly deployed if you sense the snow move beneath you.
Weather
The weather conditions in the area can affect how snow behaves, which can increase the likelihood of an avalanche occurring. Check the forecast well before your trip and on the day of departure to see what temperatures are like. There are even avalanche specific warnings in areas prone to them. Sun exposure and warmer temperatures can loosen snowpack, making it more fragile and weak. Sometimes rain can melt snow and make an area more vulnerable. If you know in advance what to expect, you can change your route and riding style, or even delay your trip if you think conditions will be too unfavorable.
Take a Safety Course
Finally, you should investigate snow and avalanche safety courses in your area, particularly if you live near the mountains. Many places offer these classes, including snowmobile dealers, forestry centers, and ski resorts. Some courses are available online. An awareness course can present you with the dangers of an avalanche, while other courses will show you how to rescue others and how to assist yourself if you do become trapped in an avalanche. A safety class can help you to prepare yourself for incident-free snowmobile riding, so it’s worth investigating.
Don’t have a snowmobile for the winter season? Visit our dealership in Big Bend today to see our wide selection of new and used snowmobiles for sale. If you need help with financing, parts, or service, we have well-staffed departments capable of helping you get what you need to purchase and maintain your snowmobile. Road Track & Trail serves the metropolises of Milwaukee and Chicago, as well as the cities of Waukesha and Kenosha, Wisconsin.