Over the Hills We Go: 7 Snowmobile Safety Tips

Riding a snowmobile is a great way to enjoy the winter conditions, but there are safety hazards involved. Amica Insurance is offering seven tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe when hitting the trails this season.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests the following when riding a snowmobile:

• Travel on familiar, marked trails, and always travel with another person. That way, if there’s a breakdown or accident, you can help one another.
  
  
• Stay away from bodies of water, as it can very difficult to determine ice coverage and depth. Also, avoid riding when the weather is bad.
  
  
• Always pay attention to what’s up ahead, as things like rocks, trees or barbed-wire fencing can pop up quickly.
  
  
• Slow down when approaching the top of a hill. There may be a cliff, snow bank or some other hazard on the other side.
  
  
• Wear a helmet that meets current safety standards, and never use headphones or ear buds while riding.
  
  
• Use caution when riding at night, and wear reflective clothing to alert others of your presence.
  
  
• Never drink and drive when operating a snowmobile.

Amica Mutual Insurance Co., the nation’s oldest mutual insurer of automobiles, was founded in 1907.