Snowmobile Safety and Awareness

We are in the heart of winter, a time often marked by the season’s deepest snow depths and continued cold temperatures. Our team relies on snowmobiles for quicker navigation and improved access to remote sites during these conditions. However, “Fool’s Spring” and fluctuating temperatures can quickly change trail and ice conditions. It’s critical that we stay aware of current weather patterns and surface conditions before heading out to ensure safe travel and operations..

Even if you’ve been on your snowmobile already this year, it is never too late to learn new tips and tricks to being successful on a snowmobile. Snowmobiling is more complex than most people would think. It is not as simple as starting the sled up and going fast. In fact, we encourage you to not do that! Learning the proper way to start, ride, and fix a snowmobile can save you when you are stuck, stranded, or have an accident while on the trail.

Here are some helpful tips to keep you and your snowmobile safe:

Know how to safely attach and detach trailers

• If possible, have a partner help align and connect
• Attach safety chain
• Connect brakes
• Test hazards, signals, and brake lights
• Check tire pressure
• Make sure it is registered and insured

Know how to load and safely secure equipment on the trailer or in back of vehicle

• 60% of the weight forward of the axle
• Use high-quality ratchet straps
• Secure at 3-4 points (Spindles/skis and rear bumper, etc)
• Make sure strap ends are secured and there is no loose debris on trailer
• When driving, allow space for moderate stopping distance
• Watch for snowmobile crossings

Use

• Check fuel, oil, and that headlight and taillight are working
• Always wear a DOT-approved helmet
• Know your emergency start options

Conditions

• Watch temperatures, trail conditions, and watch for groomers
• If ice crossing is necessary, stay on marked trails, check ice thickness (4-6 inches), try not to be first tracks
• Watch your speed
• Be alert for fences, tree stumps, ice buckling, slush, and stretched wire that may be concealed by snow

At Steigerwaldt, we use snowmobiles to get places in the winter if our trucks and ATVs are unable to. Snowmobiles can be used on most terrain, so we can drive off-trail when needed. We transport ourselves, gear, paint, and other important items using these machines. This helps us save time and energy so we can perform services effectively and efficiently. To keep our team safe, we conduct snowmobile safety training courses throughout the year and require DNR snowmobile certification for our field staff.

No matter what form of recreation you choose this February, please keep safety in mind. If you are on a snowmobile, slow down, ride right, and ride sober. Let’s all keep our snowmobile trails safe this month!