Kids learn snowmobile safety

Kids on snowmobiles zipped back and forth across the meadow below the Ponderosa Snow Warriors clubhouse as part of a Snowmobile Safety Education Course, Saturday, Jan. 14.

Six kids enrolled in the class, which was the first one in four years. Instructor Zach Muse said snowmobile riders under the age of 18 must have a driver's license or the snowmobile safety certificate they earn during the class.

"They keep it with them," Muse said of the certificate, adding they still have to be under the supervision of an adult.

The requirement applies to riding on Lincoln's streets or other roads driven by vehicles, such as Copper Creek or Sucker Creek.

Muse, who is endorsed by the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks to teach the course, explained the safety training isn't just for youngsters. "I've had adults in the class, too."

During the class, the kids learned the basics of safely riding a sled, including dressing correctly for the weather, avalanche safety and the safety equipment they should have, as well as laws, regulations and trail etiquette. Muse also addresses some of the maintenance problems they may face. He said the kids may not be able to deal with mechanical issues, but the class gives them an understanding they can build on as they get older.

In the past, Mark and Bonnie Christian provided small green 'kiddy cat" Arctic Cat snowmobiles for the class, and the Forest Service lent a couple older snowmobiles for the class, but Muse said those developed problems over the years. Now the class relies on people to bring out some of their older sleds for the kids to train on.