14
SAFETY
Operator Safety
Avalanches
Snowmobilers should always be properly
trained and equipped before traveling in
mountainous terrain:
S Take an avalanche class
S Travel with experienced people
S Travel on designated trails
S Make sure each person is equipped with
a shovel, probe and avalanche beacon.
You don’t have to be snowmobiling on a slope for an avalanche to
occur. Be aware that all of the snow is connected. You may be riding
on a flat slope or snow covered road, but if the snowpack above is
unstable enough you can trigger an avalanche on a steeper slope above
you. Always be aware of snow conditions above you as you travel in
mountainous terrain.
Before riding in mountainous terrain, call or log on to your local
avalanche advisory to get current weather and snow stability
information.
For more information about avalanche training and avalanche
conditions, contact local law enforcement in your area, or visit either
the American Avalanche Association online at
www.americanavalancheassociation.org or the U.S. Forest Service
National Avalanche Center at www.avalanche.org.