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Snowmobiling is a great way to enjoy winter and
its beautiful landscapes, but without safety, speed and recreation don't mix
on the trails. Snowmobile reliability, proper trail maintenance, respect for
rules, and warm clothing are all required.
Snowmobile reliability
Rising numbers of snowmobilers on the trails mean that solid, reliable, and
high-quality machines are more necessary than ever. Early in the history of
the sport, the industry came together to promote and ensure the safety of
its vehicles and components.
In 1965 the International Snowmobile Industry
Association (ISIA) was established to set manufacturing standards.
Restructured in 1995 as the International Snowmobile Manufacturers
Association (ISMA), the organization now oversees the four major snowmobile
manufacturers: Arctic Cat Inc., BRP, Polaris Industries Inc.,
and the Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A.
In 1974, the industry also created the Snowmobile Safety Certification
Committee (SSCC), which manages the certification program for major
snowmobile components, ensuring consistent safety for the industry's
products.
In addition to safety concerns, the industry has also focused on noise
standards and environmental protection.
Trail security and drivers' safety code
Even on the most secure snowmobile, the sport presents risks if trails
aren't well maintained and if drivers fail to follow safety rules.
The various clubs are therefore responsible for keeping their trails safe.
They must groom and mark trails, install signs, and ensure no obstacles
obstruct snowmobile paths.
Snowmobilers, for their part, must drive
responsibly, courteously, and with caution, respecting established speed
limits, and using only trails reserved for snowmobiles. They should never
travel over dangerous terrain, or drive under the influence of drugs and
alcohol.
The clothing factor
The intense cold created by the speed of a snowmobile requires drivers and
passengers to be particularly careful about their choice of winter
protection. To avoid hypothermia, we recommend you dress for much colder
conditions than the ambient temperature.
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