Montana News

Stuck snowmobilers prompt safety reminder

Posted: Jan 30, 2013 7:01 PM by Evan Weborg - MTN News

The rescue of two Helena men who were reported missing near Seeley Lake earlier this week has officials reminding people about snowmobile safety.

The two Helena men were eventually found safe after one of their sleds got stuck and they were forced to spend a night stranded in the back country.

Lewis & Clark Search and Rescue offered up some safety reminders for folks heading out to go snowmobiling.

The first thing you should do is let someone know where you're headed, and what time you plan to be back home.

If you happen to get stuck, officials say you should stay in one spot.

Lewis & Clark Search and Rescue president Jim Sheppard says timing is everything because Montana's ever-changing weather can turn in an instant.

"If you have a loved one or a friend...who is late, they said they are going to run to Lincoln they should be back by five, and it is seven or eight o'clock, and you haven't heard from them, call. The earlier we get going the better chance there is of bringing the person out," Sheppard said.

He added it's also a good idea to bring enough food for 12 to 14 hours and to carry and know how to operate an avalanche beacon.