Snow Blower & Snowmobile Safety

Snow Blower Safety

During times of heavy snowfall, snow blowers are essential for quick and easy snow removal. But, because snow blowers are heavy pieces of machinery outfitted with dangerous blades, they need to be treated with respect.

Most snow blower injuries—which commonly include severe cuts, broken bones or amputations—occur when operators try to dislodge debris or clogs. Thankfully, these serious injuries are easily avoidable when the proper safety etiquette is followed.

For example, you should never clear clogs with your hands or other limbs. Instead, use a solid object like a stick while the machine is turned off.

In addition, take care not to run over debris while using your snow blower, as it can become a dangerous projectile when flung from a snow blower’s exhaust chute.

Combining the above safety tips with attentive operation is the key to safe and effective snow removal.

For added safety, check that your snow blower is approved by the Canadian Standards association.

4 Important Snowmobile Safety Tips

Snowmobiling is a popular wintertime activity for Canadians, with over 700,000 registered snowmobiles and 125,000 kilometers of trails across the country. However, snowmobiling can be incredibly dangerous, and those who don’t take the proper safety precautions could be seriously injured, or worse.

To ensure that your winter snowmobiling activities are fun and injury-free, it’s important to keep in mind the following tips:

1. Avoid alcohol. Similar to automobiles, alcohol is the leading cause of snowmobile-related accidents and deaths. Refrain from drinking before you hit the trails this winter.
2. Carry a first-aid kit. Snowmobile accidents often occur far away from populated areas, which makes being prepared with emergency supplies all the more important. Proper kits should include a flashlight, map, compass, knife and waterproof matches.
3. Wear a helmet. Utilizing a helmet can help prevent serious head injuries associated with falls and flying debris. For added protection, riders should always wear goggles or ensure their helmets have face masks.
4. Use snowmobile trails. Marked trails are there for a reason. They keep riders away from dangerous hazards like thin ice, fences, stumps and more. If possible, never veer off of snowmobile trails.

Common causes of snowmobile accidents include excessive speed and reckless driving. To avoid potentially deadly injuries, riders should practice caution. In addition, ensuring that your snowmobile is inspected regularly can help you avoid breakdowns that can lead to dangerous situations.

Click here for a quote on your Snowmobile or call us today at 1-800-361-1072.