Emergency Tips

SLEDDING TO THE RESCUE – EMERGENCY TIPS

• Always assume an emergency will occur and be prepared for a potential crisis. Your survival could depend upon how well prepared you are.
• Inspect your equipment and emergency kit before you leave on every snowmobiling trip.
• Ensure that a reliable person knows where you are planning on going and when you will return. The latter is especially important since time is critical in the event of an injury, particularly in a cold environment.
• If you are caught in the cold and unable to walk out of the area by dark, these tips will help you survive a night in the woods:
• Care for personal injuries immediately. Even a minor looking injury may be critical.
• Find protection from the elements. Use trees, snow banks, a cave, or even your snowmobile for shelter from the weather. If possible, construct a lean-to from branches, a blanket and any extra clothing that is available.
• Anything to help block the wind, preferably bright in colour, should be used.
• Start a fire to help keep you warm, as well as signal others to where you are located.
• Locate food and water but remember that water is a priority over food. Your primary objective is to find enough water and food to survive the first night.
• Snow may be melted for water.
• Stay where you are. It will be easier for people to find you if you remain in one location. Know your ground to air rescue signals in order to aid your rescue.

THINK ABOUT YOUR SITUATION CLEARLY, AND USE THE “STOP” METHOD.

• Sit down and try to rest and relax. You need your strength.
• Think of your total situation and evaluate it carefully.
• Observe your surroundings and take inventory of your equipment.
• Plan a logical course of action and begin to follow your plan.

Make a wise investment and enroll in a winter survival course.

Sledsmart — Arrive alive!