Snowmobilers' hotline offers maps, safety tips

Snowmobile Safety Week starts Sunday.

As part of the observance, Eric Stucki, Utah Parks and Recreation off-highway-vehicle education specialist, is asking riders to learn all they can about avalanches.

"This year we urge snowmobilers to be especially aware of the avalanche danger and to use our hotline to get updated avalanche information," he said.

The OHV hotline offers current avalanche and snow conditions and grooming information for all snowmobiling complexes maintained by Utah State Parks and Recreation. Snowmobilers also may get avalanche information online at www.avalanche.org.

Riders may access the hotline 24 hours a day by calling the OHV Information Center: 1-800-OHV-RIDE. The hotline also provides information about snowmobiling laws and rules, survival tips, OHV education and maps.

In recognition of Snowmobile Safety Week, Stucki offered these safety tips:

— Check weather and avalanche conditions before heading out.

— Never ride alone. Always ride with a companion and let others know where you are going and when you expect to return.

— Ride within your skill and experience level; know your capabilities and limitations.

— Watch your fuel supply carefully.

— Dress for changing weather conditions.

— Always wear an approved helmet designed for motorized use. All snowmobile operators and passengers under 18 are required to wear properly fitted and fastened helmets, with a Department of Transportation approved safety rating for motorized use.

— Be prepared. Always carry a survival kit containing a map of the area you're riding in, compass, flashlight, extra food, extra clothing, sunglasses, first aid kit, pocketknife, waterproof matches, and candles or fire starters.

Stucki also urges parents to enroll their children in a Know Before You Go! snowmobile-education class. Drivers 8 through 16 years of age must possess an OHV Education Snowmobile Certificate issued through Utah State Parks or have a valid driver's license while operating a snowmobile on any public land, road or trail.

Children under 8 cannot operate a snowmobile on public land. Classes are available each week through the riding season.

For more information or to register for a class, contact the OHV Education Office at 1-800-OHV-RIDE.