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SALT LAKE CITY — Two deadly crashes are under investigation in Wasatch County, each taking the life of a snowmobiler.
Sara Scott, 51, died in the latest crash, on Wednesday when deputies said she lost control and hit a tree near Daniels Summit Lodge outside Heber City.
The Utah Highway Patrol is looking into another accident on Sunday, where they say 44-year-old Chris Brown, of Farmington, was hit by a semitruck while trying to cross U.S. Highway 40 near Strawberry Reservoir.
"First and foremost, we ... want to send our condolences to the families," said Missy Elardi, president of the Utah Snowmobile Association.
Snowmobiling can be an extremely fun sport, but Elardi emphasized it's also an extreme sport, and you need to have the proper education.
She said it's always important to be prepared with avalanche gear, at the very least, a shovel, probe and beacon, and to wear layered clothing.
"And then just knowing where you're going, having a mapping system, having buddies," Elardi said. "Don't ever go out and ride snowmobiles alone."
She also stressed the importance of good communication and riding with experienced people. Remember to stay to the right of the trail and avoid following too closely. She also points out that it may take extra effort to see what's going on around you with a helmet on, especially in bad weather conditions.
Knowing where you're going, having a mapping system, having buddies. Don't ever go out and ride snowmobiles alone.
–Missy Elardi, Utah Snowmobile Association
"You've got a helmet on and so that's covering everything except for your vision here," she demonstrated. "So if it's snowing, if it's blowing snow, if it's windy, depending on the conditions, it could be hard to see what traffic's coming."
The Utah Snowmobile Association works with different organizations that handle the trails and helps educate people on the sport. The association has more detailed recommendations for safety here.
