Cell Phones
Before you begin your trip, be sure to charge the batteries of your cell phone. The cell phone should be kept warm, like stored in an inside coat pocket, to help preserve the battery life. Cell phones often do not work in the remote areas where you may be snowmobiling, so do not rely on a cell phone as your only safety device.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
A GPS unit can be extremely helpful during your trip. A GPS unit gives your exact location, which can easily be relayed to emergency personnel. A GPS runs on batteries, so be sure to check them before you ride, bring some spares with you and keep them warm. It is helpful to review how the unit works before you ride so you become familiar.
Lights and Flares
You should never head out onto a trail without a flashlight in your emergency kit. A strobe light may also be helpful in an emergency situation. Since flashlights and strobes run on batteries, always check the batteries before you ride, bring extra with you, and keep them warm.
Flares or “pop-ups” can be taken along on your trip for emergency situations. Be sure to follow the instructions to avoid further injury.
Compass and Maps
A compass is a critical item to have on your trip. It can be used as a back up to your GPS unit if the battery runs out. When reading a compass, do not hold it near metal objects. This causes the compass needle to read falsely. Be sure you become familiar and comfortable using the compass before you ride.
A topographic map is helpful because it shows the landscapes in three dimensions to help you along the way.
Shovel
A small shovel can be most helpful if you become stuck or stranded. Many shovels are small enough to store on your sled or to easily carry in a backpack. Always carry a shovel when riding in avalanche-prone areas.
Ice Picks
Ice picks should be considered by snowmobilers if traveling near water. The cord from each pick is threaded through the sleeves of the jacket, out of the way of your hands, until they are needed. If you happen to fall through the ice, the picks are right at your wrists covered by your jacket sleeves. Jam the pointed end of the pick down in the ice. The pick will anchor you and allow you to pull your body back onto the ice.
