Preparing to Ride

Preparing for Mechanical Emergencies

Mechanical problems can occur at any time, so it’s wise to carry the tool kit and owner’s manual that came with your snowmobile. In addition, you should carry some spare parts and emergency items:

• Extra spark plugs
• Drive belt
• Tow rope
• Extra key
• Headlight and taillight bulbs
• Electrical and duct tape
• Flashlight
• Knife
• Extra starter cord
• Cell phone
• First-aid kit (see Chapter Four)

If you plan to ride over frozen water, carry emergency ice picks designed for snowmobilers and fishermen. If you fall through the ice, you can anchor the palm-size picks at the edge of the hole and pull yourself out of the water.

In mountainous areas where avalanches may be a problem, be sure to carry these items.

• Transceiver (beeper): A transceiver lets rescuers locate you if you’re trapped in an avalanche. Riders set their transceivers to “transmit” normally. After an avalanche, rescuers switch theirs to “receive.”
• Avalanche probes: Similar to lightweight tent poles, these probes let you search for persons or objects hidden under the snow. You also can use them to check the depth or firmness of the snow.
• Shovel: You can dig out an avalanche victim. You also may need to dig out your own sled if it gets stuck in snow.