b'S afeTyMany things make snowmobiling fun:Yes, theres plenty of challengeincreases fatigue, fogs your ability to the breathtaking beauty of a snow- awaiting you as you drive yourmake good decisions, and slows your filled woods, fields and mountains;snowmobile into the winterreaction time. Its part of a formula for the precision performance of a well- wonderland. Alcohol magnifies anddisaster. And dont forget - Vermont designed machine; the satisfaction ofdistorts those challenges and canhas laws prohibiting the operation of a traversing the winter landscape withquickly turn an enjoyable outing into asnowmobile while under the influence friends and family. Yes, snowmobilerssituation thats hazardous for you andof alcohol.savor the winter world, and that callsothers.for extra responsibility. Training,AS A SAFE RIDER, YOU:experience and awareness are all traitsALCOHOL & SNOWMOBILINGof the accomplished snowmobiler.DO NOT MIX! Know your abilities and dont go You are the Safe Riders! You makeForget that myth that alcohol warmsbeyond themsnowmobiling safe. up a chilled person. It opens theKnow your machines capabilities Snowmobiling is fun, but its work,blood vessels and removes theand dont push beyond them.too. It challenges the body and mind,feeling of chill, but it does nothingKnow your riding area. Get a map. and thats part of the reason youreto increase body heat. Instead, it canTalk to the local folks.so relaxed at the end of a day ofincrease the risk of hypothermia, a snowmobiling. While you are riding,dangerous lowering of the bodysLearn more - reading manuals the wind, sun, glare, cold, vibration,core temperature. With alcohol, youand other materials from motion and other factors work togethermay only feel warmer, while yourmanufacturers, administrators and to affect both driver and passenger. body chills dangerously.Alcoholsnowmobile associations, or watch videos or computer programs from these sources. Snowmobile What does a VAST Safety Ambassadorclubs, state and provincial associations offer courses, Team Member do? information and activities. Many members are certified driving Talks to visitors about where to ride, conditions and best places to stay,and/or safety instructors.park, eat or gas up Keep your machine in top shapeSometimes rides with visitors or others who want someone to go withYou have two good guides them available for snowmobile Rides our trails, making sure trails are well marked and letting clubsmaintenance: the owners manual know if hazards are present or signs missing that came with it and your dealer. Helps law enforcement at safety checks or accidents by securing trailConsult both to make sure your machine is kept in top form for area, helping first responders to get to the scene dependable, enjoyable fun.In general, is helpful and committed to keeping Vermont the bestYour local club or association snowmobile destination in the Northeast may also conduct safety and To find out more about our team and this program go to VTVAST.org maintenance programs.or contact Cindy Locke at cindy@vtvast.org, 802-229-0005 x111 Before each ride, follow the pre-op check outlined in your owners manual.Follow the rulesSAFE CROSSINGBe careful when crossing roads of any kind. Come to a complete stop and make absolutely sure no traffic is approaching from any direction. Then cross at a right angle to traffic.8 |Vermont Association of Snow Travelers'