Safe Snowmobiling

Two families of snowmobilers were finally rescued after being missing for over three days near Cumbres Pass, between New Mexico and Colorado. Search efforts had been hampered by snowy conditions, high winds and bad roads.

Several times, rescue efforts had to be halted to ensure safety for the searchers, as road conditions began to get dangerous because of heavy snow conditions and avalanches.

The two families were snowmobiling together. The leader of the group had 15 years of experience in snowmobiling and was carrying standard safety equipment like avalanche beacons, a shovel, a good backpack and other safety equipment. They had been expected to be back by Friday evening, but failed to show up on schedule.

Last week, too, a woman and two young boys became lost while snowmobiling in Maine. A short hop turned into an ordeal that lasted over 12 hours when their snowmobile got stuck in deep snow. The three were later rescued.

The two incidents demonstrate that things can go awry even with the best intentions when out snowmobiling.

Safety Tips:
* Before heading out for a snowmobile trip, inform somebody you trust where you are going, what route you plan to take and when you plan to return.
* Always have a hat on in addition to a helmet. If you have to walk far, the helmet will become cumbersome and you probably will take it off; the hat will keep your head warm. Also have an extra set of gloves.
* If unfamiliar with the region to be traveled, always ask local residents and wardens about the trails. Make sure you keep off private property.
* If the snowmobile breaks down on a marked trail, it will be better to stay with the machine until another snowmobiler comes.
* Always carry a cell phone
* Always have a GPS unit.
* Pack in your backpack possible avalanche necessities, like a shovel (if possible one with a saw in case you have to do some cutting), an avalanche beacon, probes, and other safety equipment.
* Bring a flashlight and matches (or something which can be used to start a fire).
* Respect the cold. Be sure you are bundled up in appropriate warm clothes.
* Ride at a reasonable speed and adjust speed to existing conditions.
* If you drink, do not drive. Snowmobilers should remain sober. A high percentage of snowmobile fatalities and injuries are the result of irresponsible use of alcohol.