Trail Things

Ice & Snowmobiling Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. Wherever possible, avoid riding on frozen lakes and rivers because ice conditions are never a safe bet. Ice conditions can change in a period of several hours. If you must cross ice, ask first, then stay on the packed or marked trail. Don't stop until you reach shore. If you hit slush, don't let off the throttle. If you are following someone who hits slush, veer off to make your own path. If you must travel over lakes and rivers then consider using a buoyant snowmobile suit which will assist you to reach the closest ice surface. Also consider carrying a set of picks which will help you grip the edge of the ice more easily As a rule of thumb, "If you don't know, don't go." If you do break through the ice, don't panic. Follow these self rescue tips:

· Kick vigorously into a horizontal position and swim to the nearest ice edge.
· Place hands/arms on unbroken ice while kicking hard to propel your body onto the ice, like a seal.
· Once clear, stay flat and roll away to stronger ice.
· Stand, keep moving and find shelter fast.

* Recommended Minimum Ice Thickness *
For New Clear Hard Ice

No ice is without some risk.
Be sure to measure clear hard ice in several places.


Thickness Will Hold
3” (7cm) or less STAY OFF
4” (10cm) Average full-grown person
5” (12cm) Snowmobile / ATV
8-12” (20-30 cm) One vehicle - car or small pick-up
12-15” (30-38 cm) One vehicle - medium truck

NO ICE IS WITHOUT SOME RISK… MINIMIZE YOUR RISK
It is critical that the ice quality or type of ice is evaluated before you travel.
Clear hard new ice is the only kind of ice recommended for travel.
AVOID...
- Slushy ice
- Ice on or near moving water, e.g., rivers, currents.
- Ice that has thawed and refrozen.
- Layered or rotten ice caused by sudden temperature changes.
Other risk factors that weaken or “rot” ice:
- Snow on ice that acts as a blanket to prevent hardening of ice
- Pressure ridges due to wind or current pressure.