Safety on snowmobiles
Learn about safety equipment, clothing, avalanche danger, and preparedness for safe snowmobiling.
Mandatory Equipment
The driver and passenger must wear an approved helmet during all snowmobiling. In addition to a helmet, it is highly recommended to have:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Approved helmet | Mandatory, protects the head in case of a fall or collision |
| Visor or goggles | Protects the eyes from wind, snow, and cold |
| Driving suit | Wind- and waterproof clothing against cold |
| Gloves | Warm gloves that provide a good grip |
| Boots | Lined, waterproof boots with good traction |
Cold and Hypothermia
Cold is an underestimated risk when snowmobiling. Wind chill makes it feel much colder than the air temperature.
- Hypothermia affects reaction time and concentration.
- Dress in layers, with wool underwear closest to the body.
- Take breaks to warm up, especially on longer trips.
- Frostbite usually starts on fingers, toes, nose, and ears.
Avalanche Awareness
Snowmobiles are often used in mountain terrain where avalanches can occur.
- Check the avalanche forecast on varsom.no before your trip.
- Avoid riding in steep slopes with a danger level of 3 or higher.
- Bring avalanche equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) if you ride off-trail with permission.
- Never ride alone in avalanche-prone terrain.
Ice Safety
Driving on frozen lakes and rivers is risky. The ice can be uneven in thickness, especially at:
- Inlets and outlets of rivers and streams
- Currents under the ice
- Late in the season when the ice is thawing
Always check the ice thickness and never drive on ice you are unsure about.
Preparedness and Planning
For any trip you should:- Notify about your trip plan and expected return time
- Bring emergency supplies, warm clothing, and first aid
- Ensure the snowmobile is in good technical condition and has enough fuel
- Be able to navigate with map and compass in whiteout or poor visibility
Mobile coverage in the mountains is often limited. Do not rely solely on your phone for emergency communication.
Rollovers and Accidents
In case of a rollover or accident:
- Secure the accident site so that other snowmobiles can see you.
- Provide first aid and call 113 if someone is injured.
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger.
Prepare for the test with free theory test and test your knowledge of safety.
Further reading- Read about driving on trails for rules in marked trails.
- See snowmobile driver’s license class S for an overview of requirements.
- Read about ice safety for snowmobiles for safe driving on ice.
- See snowmobile maintenance for seasonal check and daily control.
Read next
More in Snowmobile theory
Driving on the trail
Review of the rules for snowmobiling on marked trails and requirements for consideration of nature.
Equipment for snowmobiles
Overview of necessary and recommended equipment for safe snowmobiling.
Ice safety for snowmobiles
Learn about ice safety when snowmobiling, from ice thickness and danger zones to preparedness for breakthrough.
Maintenance of snowmobile
Learn about necessary maintenance of a snowmobile, from daily checks to seasonal preparation.