It’s the start of another snowmobile season and the clubs are getting prepared. I’ve noticed on social media that many clubs have started clearing trails, cutting grass, building shelters, servicing equipment and installing trail signs.
I’m sure every club in Saskatchewan could use more helpers for these tasks. How about taking on a job or two—getting firewood for a shelter, installing signs or repairing or upgrading a shelter? Maybe you’re a mechanic or have mechanical experience and could help out by servicing or repairing the club’s equipment. How about running the club’s groomer? Maybe you have a background running equipment and can offer some time.
Without volunteers, we won’t continue to have what we have. It’s easy to sit back and think it will all happen without your help, but if more folks got involved, our trails would improve, snowmobiling would improve and your own life would improve. Get your children involved and show them if they do chip in it can be rewarding and beneficial. Showing your children how to volunteer is a lifelong investment, and your children will be winners along with your community. Just including them is a start. If they see mom and dad getting involved, they will want to do the same. There is more involvement required with the club than just the trail activities: serving on the club executive, book- keeping, fundraising, event co-ordinating and the list goes on. But this won’t happen unless you get involved and you should make it a family thing. It’s well known that families who snowmobile together are great families.
It’s time to check over your sled to make sure you have it ready for the season. It never hurts to give it a bath, check the belt, make sure your spare belt is in top condition, clean out the glove box, and make sure you have new spare spark plugs. Check your carbide ski runners and replace them if worn; check your sliders and replace if worn. If you don’t want the hassle, get an appointment with your dealer and get your sled checked so you’re ready for the season.
If you or anyone in your family is looking to receive your snowmobile safety certificate, please visit www.sasksnow.com to register for the online safety course or to view the classroom calendar for upcoming safety courses. Please call the office if you would like a course to run in your community. Remember, you don’t have insurance without it. Please register your snowmobile. Without registration, you have no liability coverage and a package policy is not in effect for when you use your snowmobile. Visit an insurance agent and consider increasing your liability coverage as the registration provides $200,000 coverage. You may want to consider a package policy for full coverage. For more information on snowmobile insurance, visit your local insurance agent.
I wish you all a great winter and remember to invite a friend to go snowmobiling.
