Snow: what some see as a burden, others see as an opportunityfor fun. Nicely powdered trails aren't just for snowboarders andskiers, as snowmobile enthusiasts take to the trails as well.

But as with any vehicles, there are risks involved. According tothe National Center for Biotechnology Information, snowmobiles canweigh in excess of 600 pounds and travel at speeds exceeding 90miles per hour. Each year snowmobile accidents produceapproximately 200 deaths and 14,000 injuries, says the NCBI.

“Many snowmobile accidents are a result of a lack of safetyknowledge,” says Kevin Henry, senior product manager for snowmobileinsurer Foremost Insurance Group.

Foremost, a subsidiary of Farmers, recently released its top 10tips to help snowmobilers stay safe this winter. Click “next” toread safety tips snowmobilers should follow to avoid filing aclaim.

Be aware of the conditions and slow down atnight. Check out the weather forecast prior to riding.Slow down at night, especially around frozen water and in themountains.

Be smart. Use the proper signals to identifyyour intentions to other drivers around you. Keep your speed inline with the conditions and with your level of experience.

Be prepared. Always bring a first-aid kit andsurvival items such as a flashlight, knife, compass, flares, and afire starting kit.

Don't drink and drive. There is amisconception that alcohol will keep you warm. In reality, itincreases your risk of hypothermia and also slows your reactiontime and decreases your ability to make good decisions.

Don't ride solo. Snowmobiling is more fun whenyou can enjoy the adventure with friends and family. If you decideto ride alone, be sure to tell someone where you are going and whenyou will return.

Dress properly. Wear protective gearsuch as a safety-certified helmet, warm gloves, a windproof outerlayer and boots.

Know the laws and regulations. State laws andregulations may vary; therefore, you should check with the localDepartment of Natural Resources or law enforcement agencies tofamiliarize yourself with the rules in your area.

Know you're protected. Be sure youhave proper insurance coverage to protect your vehicle and provideliability coverage in case someone gets injured or property isdamaged during the use of your machine.

Maintain your snowmobile. When you pull yoursled out of storage, perform a thorough check to make sure thateverything is working properly. Before each ride, it is importantto follow a checklist in your owner's manual.

Tread lightly and respect nature. Ride only inareas where it's permitted. Wait for enough snow to covervegetation, avoid running over trees and shrubs and don't disturbwildlife around you.