Snowmachining on base--privilege, not right

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Richard Caudill
  • 354th Fighter Wing Safety Office
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Well, it's that time of year again--time to pull that dusty, dirty snowmachine out from under the blue tarp and get it ready to float over the fresh powdery snow.

Before turning the key or pulling the starting rope, remember riding snowmachines on base is a privilege, not a right.

BASE RULES

Base riders must carry a valid competency certificate issued by the wing safety office indicating they've completed the snowmobile safety education course.

Slow down when around houses or people. The base speed limit is "fast enough to keep the machine moving in a forward motion, which is about 10 to 15 mph.

Do not ride through people's yards.

Stay off the roads as much as possible.

The speed limit for ledges and narrow paths is 10 mph.

If these rules are not followed people will lose their privilege to ride snowmachines on Eielson.

SAFETY TIPS

Don't drink alcoholor take medications before or during snowmachine operation. Drinking alcohol can impair judgment and slow reaction time and can also constitute driving under the influence. Snowmachiners who have been drinking often drive too fast. Alcohol also causes body temperature to drop at an accelerated rate, which increases the likelihood of hypothermia. Alcohol has been shown to be a contributing factor in most fatal snowmachine accidents.

Slow down. Speed is a contributing factor in nearly all fatal snowmachining accidents. Ride at a pace that allows ample reaction time for any situation. Drive at moderate speeds, and drive defensively--especially after sunset.

Carry a first-aid kit, flashlight, knife, compass, map and waterproof matches.
Don't cross bodies of water when you're uncertain of ice thickness or water currents.
Weather in the arctic can change rapidly; moving water in streams and lake inlets can affect the thickness and strength of ice. Snow cover can act as a blanket and prevent safe ice from forming.

Dress appropriately. Always wear a helmet with goggles or a face shield to prevent injuries from twigs and flying debris.

Wear layers of water-repellant clothing with no loose ends that might catch in the machine or tangle in equipment.

Stay on marked trails or, where allowed, on the right shoulder of the road. Be alert for fences, tree stumps and stretched wire that may be concealed by snow.

Never travel alone. Most snowmachine accidents result in personal injury. The most dangerous situations occur when a person gets injured while alone.

If someone must travel alone, they should tell someone their destination, planned route and return time.