Better safe than sorry

While it may appear nothing more than a catchy phrase, when applied to snowmobile enthusiasts, the expression, wear the gear could mean the difference between life and death.
"The Haddon matrix of injury prevention talks about prepare, stay safe, and survive," says Wayne Young, acting director, injury prevention with the Canadian Red Cross.
Developed by William Haddon in the early 1970s, the injury prevention matrix Young refers to is about making preparations before you leave on an outing.
For snowmobilers, that means ensuring your machine is in tip-top shape, carrying a second belt in case the one on the machine breaks, and making sure you have the proper equipment on the snowmobile before you head out, Young says.
"You need to take extra spark plugs and all the necessary tools to assist you in case you have an incident where you break down," he advises.
It's also crucial to have what Young refers to as a 'reaching assist.' These can be throw bags, which are required, by law, to be kept in boats.
"You can lay them in the little compartment where you'd keep your dry belt; you can put them under your seat or some machines have a storage bag in the back," Young explains.
An avid snowmobiler who grew up in Wabush, Young also discourages riders from venturing out at night and suggests they should never drink and drive.
A survival kit with a blanket, candles, waterproof matches and an axe should also be taken on every trip, he says.
"All these items can make the difference between surviving a night or not," says Young.
Those taking to the trails should also tell those they are leaving at home what route they will be taking.
Never travel alone
As well, Young says, a snowmobiler should never travel alone.
"Always have a buddy with you and give yourself a good distance between the two," he maintains.
The type of clothing a snowmobiler chooses to wear can also mean the difference between life and death, he says.
"What we're telling the public to do is purchase a buoyant snowmobile suit, especially if you're intending on travelling over the waterways."
The buoyancy material in the suit will help float the wearer horizontally, giving them an opportunity to pull themselves onto the ice, if they did break through.
Young says, at one time or another, 99 per cent of snowmobilers do travel over ponds, streams and other water areas covered with ice.
The Red Cross is researching seven ice-related deaths that occurred in 2006, five of which were snowmobile related.
To be considered safe for snowmobiling, there should be at least 25 cm (10 inches) of ice covering any water surface.

Special to The Compass by DANETTE DOOLEY

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