away from avalanche paths.
• If travel over lakes or rivers is
absolutely necessary, test the
thickness of ice beforehand and
avoid areas with fast flowing water,
such as narrows.
• Watch out for overflow conditions.
• Beware of hidden obstacles such as
fence wires and boulders.
• Various light conditions make it
difficult to see hazards. Drive so
you can stop within your limits
of visibility.
• Learn general maintenance and
trouble-shooting procedures for
the machine.
• Familiarize yourself with maps
and compass readings, survival
techniques, and ground-to-air
rescue signals.
• Do not unduly damage the
environment or harass wildlife.
• Carry repair kits.
• Carry survival kits on extended trips.
• If using a Sno-Cat, ensure there is an
escape hatch in the roof.
Essential Equipment
Essential equipment, sufficient for each
person and machine, to be carried on
extended trips includes the following:
• Extra fuel in safe containers;
• Two-cycle gas de-icer;
• Repair kit, including a tool kit and
spare parts;
• Survival kit;
• Map and compass;
• GPS unit;
• Two methods of communication:
radiotelephone, satellite messenger
(e.g., InReach) and/or satellite phone;
• Snowshoes;
• Shovel and axe;
• Block and tackle pulley system;
• Rope;
• Flashlight and extra batteries;
• Spare key; and
• Self-rescue ice picks and auger when
travelling over ice.
Have a safe day, everyday! ■
The fifth edition of Safety Guidelines
for Mineral Exploration in Western
Canada will be released prior to Mineral
Exploration Roundup 2014; as with previous
editions, AME BC members are entitled
to one free copy. To obtain a copy, visit the
AME BC offices or email info@amebc.ca.
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