Don’t forget your safety when snowmobiling: here are the 6 most frequently overlooked items before a ride.
Snowmobile safety is essential for every rider in Quebec. From Charlevoix to Gaspé to Monts-Valin, snowmobiling is a passion that has brought us together for years. But every year, too many accidents occur on the trails. Many could have been avoided.
At Airmedic, our mission is to provide you with safe, efficient heliborne medical transport services, adapted to any situation, day or night, 365 days a year. That’s why it’s essential to plan your shipment carefully and pay attention to every detail.
Safety starts with Airmedic protection, but it also means setting off on an expedition properly equipped. Here’s how to prepare for a safe hike.
For more information, see Getting ready to snowmobile with Airmedic.
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Check your Airmedic coverage for snowmobile safety.
We often think that accidents only happen to other people. But that’s not the case. That’s why the FCMQ is offering 12 months of annual coverage for the price of 11 by using promotional code FCMQ2023 when purchasing annual coverage. Take responsibility for your safety. Equip yourself with your annual Airmedic protection and you’ll improve your snowmobile safety on all FCMQ trails this winter.
Subscribe with the exclusive FCMQ member discount.
If you’re already an Airmedic member, check that your coverage is still active and that you’re not due for renewal. To do so, contact our customer service department, Monday to Friday, at 1-866-673-3838.
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Let your friends and family know when you’ll be back and where you’ll be going.
Before you leave, let your family and friends know your itinerary and expected time of return. That way, if anything should happen to you, they can alert the emergency services and contact Airmedic quickly.
What’s more, if you’ve informed him of your route, it will be even easier for first responders and relay personnel on your route to search for you and find you efficiently. This simple gesture can save you from spending the night outdoors.
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Have a reliable means of communication.
Reliable communication is a cornerstone of snowmobile safety. Whether you use a cell phone or a satellite phone, always carry one with you. It’s essential to be able to contact Airmedic if you need to.
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- First, if you’re using your cell phone, dial 1-877-999-3322. Keep the battery charged and your device warm, so it doesn’t run down quickly.
- Then, if you’re using a satellite phone, dial 1 418 673-3322. In fact, Airmedic recommends the use of voice satellite phones and two-way satellite communication devices for exchanging messages. These devices enable you to communicate with the control center and transmit essential information. To validate your device, contact SKNA Solutions Télécom: (514) 952-7562 or [email protected].
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Dress for winter conditions to ensure snowmobile safety.
On the trails, the cold can be surprising. Whether it’s after dark or when you’re heading back out after a warm break. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring along a change of clothes if you’re going to be riding for a long time: socks, basic wetsuit, mittens, balaclava, neck warmer. Proper clothing is also part of snowmobile safety. Even if your suit is new and well insulated, you’re never safe from frostbite.
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Define your route in advance and identify the stops along the way.
By mapping out your route in advance, you can identify the various stops along the way. This means you’ll know where you can stop to warm up and have a bite to eat, but above all you’ll know the distance between two stops, so you can plan for sufficient fuel. In this way, you can avoid unpleasant surprises.
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Carry a first-aid kit
Snowmobile safety also means being able to provide first aid before help arrives. In remote areas, you may have to wait several hours. In the event of an accident, rapid intervention can save lives.
When you contact the Airmedic emergency center, a nurse will guide you in stabilizing the injured person’s condition.
SIRIURSMEDx, the professionals in first aid in remote areas, recommend that you have the following items in your kit:
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- Survival blanket to keep warm
- Lighter and candle (source/production of heat)
- Insulating ground mattress to prevent heat loss through conduction in the snow while waiting for help
- Sam splint and triangular bandage to immobilize a limb
- Hot shots
- Headlamp
For this reason, you can purchase a compact kit for $60 from the SIRIUSMEDx online store here.
What sets us apart
If you have an accident or become unwell this winter, Airmedic will respond quickly. You will receive emergency medical assistance and be transported to the appropriate hospital.
Our doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, pilots and emergency call center are always available, whether you’re in a remote area or close to an urban center.
In short, Airmedic is your snowmobiling safety solution.
Discover Airmedic protection plans for your snowmobile safety
Today, Airmedic has carried out over 7,000 missions and transported more than 13,000 patients across Quebec. And it’s not over yet!
