With a statewide average annual snowfall of 100 inches or more, New Hampshire is a snowmobile enthusiast’s paradise, and safety plays a primary role in the enjoyment of our state’s 7,000 miles of snowmobile trails. People who respect limits, ride responsibly, and are considerate of their environment ride with peace of mind and make our trails safer for all riders. When you ride, apply the following 10 snowmobile safety tips to make New Hampshire’s trails safer and more enjoyable for everyone this winter:
Buy and wear a quality helmet. Wearing a quality helmet is the most important safety factor when it comes to riding any type of off-highway recreational vehicle. New Hampshire law requires riders under the age of 18 to wear helmets.
- Wear appropriate clothing. Temperatures may rise or fall up to 30 degrees in a short amount of time in the winter. Precipitation can change throughout the day as well. Be prepared for extreme conditions and changing weather.
- Identify and respect your skill limitations. Each rider has a unique skill limit and each snowmobile has a mechanical performance limit. Knowing and respecting these limitations keeps everyone safer.
- Do not speed. Trails conditions are always changing. Staying under the speed limit is the best way to prevent a collision. From 10 mph to 55 mph, New Hampshire’s speed limits vary widely by location.
- Know the area. When you are aware of where the trail ahead of you leads, riding is safer. Use a map to familiarize yourself with the trails and terrain before venturing out to unknown areas.
- Be prepared when you ride. Carry a basic first-aid kit, a multi-tool or knife, and spare spark plugs. Double check that your machine’s tool kit is complete and in good working order.
- Let someone know your planned route. Tell someone where you are going and how long you expect to be gone. In the unfortunate event that you become stranded, rescuers need to know where to begin the search.
- Never assume the ice is safe. If you plan to venture out to a frozen body of water, it’s crucial to make certain it is safe. Always avoid inlets, outlets, natural springs, and other areas of moving water. Skimming a snowmobile over open water is extremely dangerous, not to mention illegal in New Hampshire.
- Never ride after consuming alcohol. Riding under the influence of alcohol or any impairing substance is against the law in New Hampshire and endangers the lives of everyone on the trails.
- Keep an open mind to education. The New Hampshire Fish & Game Department offers many rider education courses for riders of every skill level. Every rider can make use of additional instruction and review. Click here to schedule a rider education course today.
By planning ahead and using common sense, everyone can be a safer rider this winter. At Knapton, Reade & Woods, your safety is important to us. For additional safety tips and other useful resources, please read our blog, or visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+.
