Avalanche Safety for Snowmobile Riders

As an avid snowmobile rider, you know that you’re exposing yourself to some inherent dangers while riding, especially up in the mountains. One of the most dangerous situations you can find yourself in is a sudden avalanche. Avalanches can occur due to snowmelt, recent rains, or even due to careless riders causing too much snowpack to loosen up. It’s essential that you understand how to protect yourself from this hazard.

Gear Up

Wearing and bringing the right gear is a good way to protect yourself. A lot of problems occur simply because snowmobile riders are woefully unprepared. In addition to your layered clothes and your snowsuit and helmet, you’ll want to wear an avalanche transceiver, which is a small device that serves as a beacon should you become trapped under snowpack.

Make sure that every person in your party is carrying a collapsible shovel in their backpacks. In the event of an avalanche, time is of the essence, so you’ll likely have to start digging after you radio for rescue to save your companions from oxygen deprivation or frostbite.

Check the Weather

Certain weather conditions can heighten the risk of an avalanche, making it more dangerous to go riding. Check the local forecasts for the place you plan to ride. Has there been a lot of rain recently, which can melt and loosen up snow? Have the temperatures been warmer than usual during the day? Has the sun simply been out more than normal? Any of these things can cause an avalanche, so it’s best to avoid riding if one has occurred.

Need to get your snowmobile repaired before your next ride? Contact the Cycle North service department to schedule an appointment. Take a look at our website to see what types of new and used snowmobiles we have in stock at our dealership located in Prince George, BC. Cycle North is proud to serve our Canadian customers throughout the province of British Columbia.