Mountain riding is a fast growing activity for North American snowmobilers. With spectacular mountain terrain comes the added safety concern of avalanches. You can minimize your risk by taking an avalanche awareness course and carrying the proper equipment. If you don't live in the mountains, but plan to ride there occasionally, you should prepare yourself before leaving. Here are a few mountain riding pointers:
- Take an avalanche class. These are available online and through various books and videos. But it's best to take a multi-day course on the snow. For information on avalanche classes, bulletins, and other resources, check these websites:
US: www.avalanche.org
Canada: www.avalanche.ca
- Always check the avalanche bulleting for your region before you go riding.
- Most avalanches occur in steep slopes of 30-60 degrees. Don't park at the bottom of these slopes.
- If highmarking, go one at a time, with everyone else watching from a safe spot away from the potential avalanche runout area.
- If someone gets stuck on a steep slope, give them time to free their sled. Adding another snowmobile to the slope could start an avalanche.
- Always wear an avalanches transceiver - and practice using it. Carry a shovel and probe in a small backpack. Your best chance for a successful rescue is if it's done within your own party. There's no time to seek outside help.
- Have fun and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery!
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Safe Riders! Information
