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Snowmobiling: Use Extra Caution on First Trip Out

December 24, 2008 - It has been several months since most of us have been out riding. Snow is still spotty in most areas, with leaves and grass poking through the patches of snow. The recent ice storm did little to help the bare trails in the southern and coastal part of Maine. Northern and western Maine received mostly snow, but trails remain closed. Once snowmobilers hit the trails, they need to be aware of the amount of recent rainfall.

"Certainly the thing to be cognizant of is operation around water considering all of the rain that we have had," said Michael Sawyer, recreational safety and vehicle coordinator for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

"People also need to find out if there have been changes in the trails, such as trails being relocated because of factors such as a timber harvest, development or landowner permission.

"Snowmobilers need to remember that it has been a while since they've been on a sled, and they should exercise extreme caution the first time out."

BE PREPARED

There are some things to keep in mind before you head out for that first ride. First of all, make sure your snowmobile is in good running condition. Have a mechanic check it out, putting it through its paces, or do it yourself if you are qualified.

"Some of the key things we emphasize is to be sure to give the machine a good check over and make sure the throttle and brakes are working," said Sawyer.

A frozen or malfunctioning throttle can be deadly. A breakdown on the trail can turn into a dangerous situation. That is why snowmobilers should be prepared for a breakdown and carry emergency supplies. It is critical that snowmobilers tell someone where they are going before they go or fill out an itinerary available at the Maine Snowmobile Association Web site. Also, never ride alone, and check out the weather forecast before going on a trip. Snowmobilers should also have with them on the trail:

1) A basic snowmobile repair kit

2) A first aid kit

3) A survival kit (rope, waterproof matches, flashlight, flares, space blanket, jackknife, high energy snacks such as chocolate bars)

4) A map of the area and a compass/GPS system

5) extra gas

6) A cell phone

In addition to these things, snowmobilers should always wear a helmet and dress appropriately, preferably in layers.

Most importantly, snowmobilers should use common sense by staying alert, driving defensively, operating at prudent speeds, knowing and obeying the laws and avoiding alcohol.

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY COURSES

Safety courses, although not required, are available through the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and local snowmobile clubs. An eight-hour certificate course is available.

"The snowmobile safety course is designed for the beginning snowmobiler," said Sawyer. "For the novice, it will introduce him or her to machine nomenclature, proper and safe handling of the machine, wilderness survival, ethics and snowmobile laws. It is designed similar to our hunter safety courses to acclimate a person to the sport."

Most of Maine's 13,500 trails are on private land. Respecting the rights of the landowners will ensure that the sport continues for generations to come.

A list of snowmobile safety courses and a link to view the snowmobile safety CD, "Right Right, Ride Smart," can be found at:

www.state.me.us/ifw/education/safety/snowmobile.htm

For more information about upcoming snowmobiling events and an itinerary form (click the link for MSA members) visit the Maine Snowmobile Association Web site at: www.mesnow.com.

Cathy Genthner is a registered Maine Guide and licensed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to guide snowmobile trips. She is the owner of River Bluff Camps in Medford, located off ITS-83.

CATHY GENTHNER, Portland Press Herald, December 18, 2008


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Regions: Sebago


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