While travel restrictions and popular trends such as the “vacation at home” phenomenon have changed the way many people escape their daily lives, rediscovering classic outdoor winter activities, such as snowmobiling, can be a great option for spending time with family and friends.
In fact, BRP – the world leader in powersports, boating and manufacturer of Ski-Doo snowmobiles – is predicting an increase in the popularity of the sport with new enthusiasts this year.
Snowmobiling can be an exciting way to discover and enjoy the beauty of winter,” says Pascal Vincent, Director, Global Product Strategy, Ski-Doo. To ensure a fun and safe experience, it is important to prepare before hitting the trails. By following these recommendations, snowmobilers can enjoy the pleasures of the snow, engage in healthy ‘escape therapy’, recharge their batteries and practice physical distancing while creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
5 tips for your next snowmobile adventure
1. Find out if you need certification. Certification requirements vary from province to province. All the necessary information is available from your local snowmobile association. région, or from the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec. For example, in Quebec, 16 and 17 year old drivers are required to have a Certificate of Ability and Knowledge.
2. Make sure you understand how your snowmobile works before you hit the trails. Take the time to learn the controls and functions of your snowmobile so you can hit the trails with confidence. The Ski-Doo experts recommend that you consult the Operator’s Guide, familiarize yourself with your fuel level and understand best operating practices before you head out. Some areas require snowmobile safety training. Snowmobile organizations in your province may offer safety training on topics such as snowmobile components, riding skills, trail emergency management, laws and regulations and hazards to avoid.
3. Wear the right clothes. Choosing the right clothing is as much about comfort as it is about safety. Some of the essentials include high pants or overalls (pants that ride up over the chest and back), coats, gloves, boots, goggles and helmets. While not required everywhere, an approved helmet can keep you warm, protected, and fog-free. For maximum comfort, it’s important to learn to layer your clothing. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer that breathes well, and finish with an outer layer to protect you from the elements. Most snowmobile dealerships offer a full line of specially designed and manufactured clothing to keep you warm and help you cope with winter conditions. For added safety, always keep the lanyard connected to your person.
4. Plan your route and share the trails with other outdoor enthusiasts. Be respectful of people you pass on the snow and practice a fun and safe riding style. Learn the traditional signals to turn, slow down and stop, and stay to the right of the trail when slopes and turns cut off your view. Follow signs and reminders to slow down. Planning your route can help you avoid entering restricted areas. Consider downloading an app like BRP GO! which has connected technology that allows for navigation on unusual and remote routes. The app also allows you to safely locate other snowmobilers and download the content you need in cases where cell phone reception is limited.
5. Pay close attention to weather conditions and protect the environment. It is important to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you head out. Wind chill and other conditions such as sun blindness on snow and whiteouts can make riding less enjoyable. Also avoid traveling on rivers or other potentially unstable ice-covered surfaces. Before you leave, check the condition of your playground and the surrounding area and make sure it is even cleaner than when you arrived. Don’t litter in the snow and respect the animals that inhabit the area you are visiting. Respecting and protecting nature and the outdoors will ensure the sustainability of winter sports and recreation for decades to come.
Visit ski-doo.com to learn more about snowmobile safety.
