SAFETY INFORMATION 35
present danger. When operating on ice, drive slowly with caution. Al-
low yourself plenty of room for stopping and turning.
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Slush should be avoided at all times. Always check for slush before
starting across any lake or river. If dark spots appear in your tracks,
get off the ice immediately. Ice and water can be thrown rearward into
the path of a following snowmobile. Getting a vehicle out of a slush
area is strenuous and in some cases, impossible.
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There are two types of hills you can encounter — the open hill on
which there are few trees, cliffs or other obstacles, and a hill that can
only be climbed directly. On an open hill, the approach is to climb it by
side hilling or slaloming. Approach at an angle. Adopt a standing posi-
tion with both feet on the same running board. Keep your weight on
the uphill side at all times. Maintain a steady, safe speed. Continue as
far as you can in this direction, then switch to an opposite hill angle
and riding position.
A direct climb could present problems. Choose the standing position,
accelerate before you start the climb and then reduce throttle pressure
to prevent track slippage.
In either case, vehicle speed should be as fast as the incline demands.
Always slow down as you reach the crest. If you cannot proceed fur-
ther, don't spin your track. Apply the parking brake, turn the engine off,
free the skis by pulling them out and downhill, place the rear of the
snowmobile uphill, restart the engine, release the parking brake and
ease it out with slow even throttle pressure. Position yourself to avoid
tipping over, then descend.
DDoowwnnhhiillll
Downhill driving requires that you have full control of your vehicle at all
times. On steeper hills, keep your center of gravity low and both hands
on the handlebar. Maintain slight throttle pressure and allow the ma-
chine to run downhill with the engine operating. If a higher than safe
speed is reached, slow down by braking but apply the brake with fre-
quent light pressure. Never jam the brake and lock the track.
SSiiddee HHiillll
When crossing a side hill or traversing up or downhill, certain proce-
dures must be followed. All riders should lean towards the slope as re-
quired for stability. The preferred operating positions are the standing
position, with both feet on the running board that is facing uphill. Be
prepared to shift your weight quickly as needed. Side hills and steep
slopes are not recommended for a beginner or a novice snowmobiler.
RIDE SAFELY
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