If you’re looking to hit the slopes and chase thrills on your snowmobile, many adventures await. Before you can gear up and go, you need to make sure you’re prepared. A key component of snowmobile riding is ensuring your safety. Fortunately, there are plenty of steps you can take to get ready. Oquossoc Marine has created this guide with helpful safety tips. Read on for more. If you’re still shopping around for the perfect sled, visit our dealership! We’ve got a great selection of snowmobiles for sale in Oquossoc, ME.
Use the Right Gear
The first thing you need to do is confirm you have the right gear and equipment. It can be difficult to try and control your body temperature when riding a snowmobile. The good news is that you can offset this by wearing a riding suit to protect you from harsh winds and precipitation. This is a great help, but you should still make a point to dress in layers that are easily removable if you start to sweat. Remember that sweating when it’s cold outside can lead to hypothermia.
When you’re riding, ice and snow can be hazardous to your eyes. The bright sun will be reflecting off the blinding white snow. This can easily be a recipe for disaster, so be sure to invest in a pair of polarized goggles. You should also have a solid pair of gloves and boots to protect your hands and feet, which are the most likely to get the coldest when riding a sled. It should go without saying that a helmet is mandatory for maximum protection in case you experience a fall or collision.
Check the Weather
Next, you’ll need to be aware of the weather conditions before you head out. The weather can be extremely unpredictable, so it’s important to check the forecast before you ride your snowmobile. Be on the lookout for precipitation, what type, and when it’s scheduled to occur. You should avoid riding in freezing rain and ice storms as it can be difficult and unsafe. If you notice a snowstorm brewing when you’re on the slopes, you should head back to safety. Due to their unpredictability, storms can start without warning. It’s best to be prepared for anything.
Take Precautions
The biggest hazard you’ll face on your snowmobile is ice. If the temperatures drop low enough, ponds, rivers, and lakes can freeze over. However, you have no way of knowing how thick the ice is. You should never automatically assume that a frozen body of water is safe to ride on. Consider the temperatures and conditions in recent weeks before deciding to ride over ice. The safest option is to avoid riding over them unless they’ve been established as safe riding trails. Last but not least, be aware of avalanche warnings when riding your snowmobile. You can be extra safe by avoiding riding in areas that have not yet been tested.
Need a new sled for your upcoming adventures? Stop by Oquossoc Marine in Oquossoc, ME, to browse our inventory. We proudly serve customers from all over Maine and New Hampshire. Thanks for shopping with us!