In the high-octane world of mountain snowmobiling, it takes a lot to get the attention of riders. Images of gravity-defying climbs, steep descents and massive jumps are common, as snowmobiles get increasingly powerful and nimble. These machines allow anyone, no matter their experience, to access complex alpine terrain. High in the mountains, lives depend on riders being aware of avalanche danger, skilled in safe travel techniques, and trained to handle an effective rescue.
The Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) has released a new video series available on online which was made for and by mountain snowmobilers that highlights the need for avalanche education. Throttle Decisions features spectacular footage shot in some of Western Canada’s best mountains riding areas, with production values that reflect the quality of other action videos from this fast-paced sport.
With strong messages from trained and experienced riders, the series takes the viewer through eight chapters that loosely follow the curriculum of a two-day Avalanche Skills Training course. Each chapter touches on essential points from the training, with a strong central message that Avalanche Skills Training is required before heading into avalanche terrain.
“We’re very pleased with Throttle Decisions and look forward to getting it in the hands of riders,” said CAC Executive Director Gilles Valade. “The videos are engaging, informative and exciting to watch. And just as importantly, they showcase the depth of skill and training in the snowmobiling community.”