Snowmobile Polaris Trail RMK (2010 year). Manual - part 2

9

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Follow the recommended maintenance program beginning on page 65 

of this manual to ensure that all critical components on the snowmobile 

are thoroughly inspected by your dealer at specific mileage intervals.

Driving a snowmobile requires your full attention. DO NOT drink alcohol or use 

drugs or medications before or while driving. They will reduce your alertness 

and slow your reaction time. In most states and provinces, it’s prohibited by law 

to drive while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Polaris produces high performance snowmobiles capable of traveling at high 

speeds. Extra caution must be observed to ensure operator safety. Make sure 

your snowmobile is in excellent operating condition at all times. We strongly rec-

ommend that the operator check major and vital safety components before 

every ride.
All Polaris snowmobiles are designed and tested to provide safe operation when 

used as directed. Failure of critical machine components may result from opera-

tion with any modifications, especially those that increase speed or power. DO 

NOT MODIFY YOUR MACHINE. The snowmobile may become aerodynami-

cally unstable at speeds higher than those for which it is designed. Loss of con-

trol may occur at higher speeds. Modifications may also create a safety hazard 

and lead to bodily injury.
The warranty on your entire machine is terminated if any equipment has 

been added, or any modifications have been made, to increase the speed or 

power of the snowmobile.

WARNING

10

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Stay Clear of Track

Your snowmobile is propelled by a revolving track that must be partially 

exposed for proper operation.

WARNING! Serious injuries may result if 

hands, feet, or clothing become entangled in 

the track. Be alert when riding, and remain 

properly seated to stay clear of the track. 

Never hold the snowmobile up or stand 

behind it while warming up the track. A loose 

track or flying debris could cause serious 

injury or death. We recommend having your 

dealer perform all track service and 

alignment procedures.

Stay Clear of Engine

Never attempt adjustments with the engine running. Turn off the igni-

tion, raise the hood, make the adjustment, secure shields and guards, 

secure the hood, and then restart the engine to check its operation.

WARNING! Serious injury can occur if fingers or clothing contact the moving 

parts of an engine. Always stop the engine before attempting adjustments.

11

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Survival Preparation

For your safety, always ride in a group of other snowmobilers. Always 

tell someone where you’re going and how long you expect to be gone. If 

it isn’t possible to ride with others, and you must travel into remote 

areas, always carry survival equipment that’s appropriate to the condi-

tions you may encounter. Such equipment may include, but is not lim-

ited to: extra clothing, a sleeping bag, a flashlight, food and water, a 

signaling mirror, a means of building a fire, and a two-way radio or cel-

lular telephone.
For added protection, carry the following items on your snowmobile at 

all times:

Riding Position

Operating a snowmobile requires skill and balance for proper control. 

Rider positions may vary with experience; but under many conditions, 

the proper position is to be seated with both feet on the running boards 

and both hands on the handlebar grips for proper throttle, brake and 

steering control.

WARNING! Improper riding position may reduce control and could result in 

serious injury or death. Always ride in a position that allows for control of your 

vehicle.

• Spare Drive Belt

• Winter Survival Kit

• Extra Set of Spark Plugs

• Trail Map

• Tow Rope

• Owner's Manual

• Extra Oil

• First Aid Kit

• Fuel Deicer

• Tool Kit

12

SAFETY

Operator Safety

Riding Apparel

Be prepared, be warm and be 

comfortable when riding. Be 

aware of the weather forecast, 

especially the windchill, and dress 

accordingly. See the chart on page 

22. 

WARNING! Avoid wearing loose 

clothing or long scarves, which can 

become entangled in moving parts 

and cause serious injury.

Helmet
Wearing a helmet can prevent a severe head injury. Whenever riding a 

Polaris vehicle, always wear a helmet that meets or exceeds established 

safety standards.
Approved helmets in the USA and Canada bear a U.S. Department of 

Transportation (DOT) label.
Approved helmets in Europe, Asia and 

Oceania bear the ECE 22.05 label. The 

ECE mark consists of a circle surrounding 

the letter E, followed by the distinguishing 

number of the country which has granted 

approval. The approval number and serial 

number will also be displayed on the label.

Eye Protection
Do not depend on eyeglasses or sunglasses for eye protection. When-

ever riding a Polaris vehicle, always wear shatterproof goggles or use a 

shatterproof helmet face shield. Polaris recommends wearing approved 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) bearing markings such as VESC 

8, V-8, Z87.1, or CE. Make sure protective eye wear is kept clean.

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