Security
On off-road vehicles and snowmobiles |
The Federation’s clubs are required to develop, maintain, and mark their trails in order to improve safety. As a result, these trails form an extensive and safe network.
Driving on Bodies of Water
Before driving on a body of water, make sure that it is frozen over hard enough to be safe. Every season, close to one quarter of snowmobile deaths are caused by drowning.
Survival Kit
Be prepared, and carry a basic survival kit that includes the following items:
- a basic toolkit and a spare key;
- spark plugs, a drive belt, and antifreeze, if applicable;
- a first-aid kit and manual;
- a sharp pocket knife, a saw, or a hatchet;
- a nylon rope that can be used for towing (approximately 10 metres long);
- a trail map and a compass;
- waterproof matches, a flashlight, and a whistle;
- a light aluminium blanket.
There is no guarantee that a cell phone will be reliable outside of urban areas or far from major road corridors. Therefore, it is a good idea to carry a topographic map. It may also be useful to bring along a GPS receiver (satellite tracking system/global positioning system) to help you find your way in the woods.
Trail Security Officers
Trail security officers are volunteers who patrol the trails in order to increase awareness of the importance of obeying the law. Their work requires know-how and dedication, and they deserve your respect and your complete cooperation. |
|
| Hand Signals |
There is a very simple system of signals that all snowmobilers should know and use when riding on the trails. These hand signals have been approved by the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO), and they allow you to convey essential information to other snowmobilers who are following or approaching you. |
| Right Turn |
 |
| Left arm raised to shoulder height, elbow bent, forearm vertical, and hand open. |
| Left Turn |
 |
| Left arm extended straight out from the shoulder and pointing in the direction of the turn. |
| Slow Down |
 |
| Left arm extended out and down from the side of the body with a downward flapping motion as a warning signal. |
| Last Snowmobile |
 |
| Raise the forearm and make a fist at the shoulder. |
|
| Oncoming Snowmobile |
 |
| Left arm raised to shoulder height, elbow bent and forearm vertical, wrist bent, move the arm from left to right above the head, indicating the right side of the trail. |
| Snowmobiles Following |
 |
| Arm raised, elbow bent, and thumb pointing backward, like a hitchhiker, move the arm from front to back above the shoulder. |
| Stop |
 |
| Arm raised vertically and open hand. |
|
|
