OCR Text |
Show December mmn skill wmtqmwcBd By Allan R. Tingey Snowmobiling has opened up a whole new world of winter family fun. But like any sport involving machines capable of high speed, there is an element of danger. OWNERS OF THESE MACHINES can reduce significantly the possibility of an accident by perhaps even eliminate of aware of the unsafe snowmobiling and by hazards being in a them operating responsible manner. ride can turn into tragedy unless the or seasoned "pro" droves the machine in a sensible alert manner. A pleasant snowmobile operator-amateu- r Snowmobile accidents or incidents claimed the lives of 144 during the past 1977-7- 8 winter season. This figure represents an increase of 47 percent over the previous season's total of 98 fatalities. Fatal accidents occurred most frequently on or immediately acadjacent to rural, county, city and state roadways counting for TWENTY-FOU- 54 percent of the total. PERCENT occurred in fields, wooded or R open areas and 15 percent were on frozen bodies of water. Approximately 70 percent of the fatal accidents occurred hours after dark. The accident frequency during the night-tim- e diminished to limited reaction be attributed visibility, may time, poor judgment, fatigue and, occasionally, excessive consumption of alcohol. The popularity of snowmobiling has resulted in thousands of miles of marked trails, the advent of "snow ranches," snowmobile safaris sponsored by clubs, etc. However, trail riding is by far the most popular. Before taking any trip, be certain to tell responsible people where you are going and when you expect to return home. Most important, don't go alone. Use the "buddy" system. On any trip, however long or short, always carry such emergency items as an extra drive belt and spark plugs, as well as necessary tools to make minor repairs and adjustments. If going to a remote area where supplies are not readily available, requirements will be considerably different than on shorter trips. However, don't overload the snowmobile. Take adequate supplies and repair items to meet any emergency. sus If you're dressed warm and comfortable, you will enjoy snowmobiling. It's as simple as that. But to stay warm and safe from frostbite, dress accordingly. Avoid tight clothing that cuts circulation. Use thermal underwear next to the skin. Regulation snowmobile suits are specifically designed for the sport. They provide ample protection against the cold, yet are designed to allow maximum freedom of movement. HANDVVEAR IS EQUALLY important. Mittens are warmer than gloves, but some people prefer full use of their fingers provided by gloves. Regardless of style, they should be loose fitting to allow closing your hands over the controls without restricting circulation. Since feet are not used much when snowmobiling, they cool off fast unless protected. Waterproof boots are essential ; and separate wool liners, which cushion feet and keep them warm and dry, are recommended. Approved helmets are a must, to protect you from weather as well as injury. Goggles are also available. Select tinted HILL TOP TIMES 1, 1978 Page 37 shields and goggles to match conditions: yellow for cloudy days, smoke for sunny days, and clear for snowmobiling at night. Remember, take good care of your snowmobile and it will take care of you. Before any ride, regardless of distance, you should: Inspect the track for cuts, cracks, wear, tension and alignment. Fill the fuel tank. Check operation of choke and throttle, e Check operation of brake. Check operation of steering and components. Check headlight and taillight. Check fuel filter for water. Check drive belt. Each snowmobile has a unique "personality" a "feel" distinctly different from any other machine. Get to know it well. After you've become acquainted with your snowmobile, you'll find that skills and confidence develop with experience. c Pffm Mf '& Yvm lira Ff (2) agies tois mm J CLAY ...... i t JOHNSON - Slam Dunk-IClay- - n Hill Top's We have some peace of mind for you. loaded It's the Delco Freedom Battery with cranking power. And that power's sealed in so you never have to add water. Freedom's designed so that you shouldn't have to check or service it. Get Freedom on your side. I ti i w irwi-You'll be thankful you did. Ihsite, Mm apeii aot pabts 11 Prices may vary among ROY 5530 South 1900 West 773-931- 0 outlets. AC-Del- co BIRTH DATE: July 18, 1956 jIl .. HEIGHT: 6'4-l2- " WEIGHT: 179 POSITION: Guard-Forwar- d HOME TOWN: Kansas City, Missouri HIGH SCHOOL: Manuel High School, Kansas City COLLEGE: Penn Valley Community College (2 years), University of Missouri His awards include: Season team Big Eight; Conference field goal percentage shooter; third team (PLAYER OF THE All-Po- st Junior College as freshman; and second team Junior College as sophomore; second in nation in rebounding for J.C. players (1976). A 4 All-Ameri- ,. icEi ,.l,u,,. ,, - i - Up Tickets - an t 1- -1 H 1 alt Palace For Plow LAYTON 693 N.Main 766-129- 4 j |