Snowmobile Polaris 120. Instruction - part 9

32

ADULT SECTION

Operation Warnings

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Check surroundings

Make sure the operation area is clear of obstacles and bystanders. Some 

sideways movement is possible when the snowmobile first begins to 

move, and debris may be thrown by the track. Teach the operator to 

check the operating area before riding.

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Sit properly on the snowmobile

Operating a snowmobile requires skill and balance for proper control. 

An improper position can reduce the child's ability to control the snow-

mobile. The riding position may vary as the operator becomes more 

skilled, but under most conditions the proper position is to be seated 

with both feet on the running boards, in a comfortable position for 

proper throttle, brake and steering control.

WARNING

This snowmobile is propelled by a revolving track, which must be partially 

exposed for proper operation. Serious injuries may be caused by operator 

carelessness, resulting in hands, feet, hair or clothing becoming entangled in 

the track. Teach the child to respect this machine and all moving parts. Teach 

the child that being properly seated is the safest way to stay clear of the track.

WARNING

Never hold the snowmobile up or 

stand behind it while warming up 

the track. A loose track or flying 

debris could cause serious per-

sonal injury or death.

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ADULT SECTION

Operation Warnings

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Always wear clothing designed for snowmobiling

Always make sure the operator is wearing an approved helmet and eye 

protection. Do not allow the child to wear loose clothing or long scarves 

because they can easily become entangled in moving parts. If your child 

has long hair, be sure it is always tied up securely and tucked into the 

helmet or jacket.
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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ADULT SECTION

Operation Warnings

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Stop engine before attempting adjustments

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Know limitations of machine and skills of driver

The operator should be aware that most areas have laws governing 

snowmobile operation and that these laws should be followed. They 

have been established for the protection of all snowmobile riders. Many 

local organizations offer a snowmobile safety course for children. 

Check with local authorities to locate providers of this service.
This vehicle is intended for daylight use only. Check both the headlight 

and taillight to ensure proper operation. 
IMPORTANT: The headlight and taillight are intended only to increase 

the visibility of the snowmobile during daylight operation. Do not oper-

ate this snowmobile in the dark.

WARNING

The snowmobile engine compartment contains moving parts. Shields and 

guards have been provided for safety, but it is still possible to carelessly get 

your hands or fingers into a moving chain or a rotating shaft. For this reason 

never attempt adjustments with the engine running. Serious personal injuries 

can result. Instead, stop the engine, raise the hood, make the adjustment, 

secure shields and guards, secure the hood, and then re-start the engine to 

check its operation. The same is true of track alignment. If the track must be 

re-aligned, it is recommended that this service be performed by your dealer.

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ADULT SECTION

Operation Warnings

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Instruct all operators

Teach all young drivers to always be alert and to pay attention to the 

driving area ahead. When teaching inexperienced operators to ride, set 

up a predetermined course. Establish boundaries and make sure all oper-

ators know and understand them. Make sure they know how to drive and 

control the snowmobile before you allow them to drive longer super-

vised distances. Teach them proper snowmobile courtesy.
It's a good idea to predetermine some hand signals as a way to commu-

nicate with a child while giving instruction. It may be difficult for a 

child to hear your voice over the sound of the snowmobile and through a 

helmet.
Teach the operator that the sound of the engine will make it difficult to 

hear the sound of approaching vehicles. Do not allow a child to operate 

the snowmobile on or near roads and railroad tracks.
Teach operators what it means to drive defensively. Never tailgate and 

always allow ample stopping distances.

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Be alert for obstacles

Wire fences are a serious hazard. Teach 

operators to always be on the alert for 

fences. Single strands are especially dan-

gerous, since there can be a great distance 

between posts. Ground wires on utility 

poles are also difficult to see. Teach opera-

tors to reduce speed when traveling near 

poles, posts or other obstacles.

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Check the weather

Extremely cold weather can cause frost-

bite and/or hypothermia. Always be aware 

of weather conditions, especially the 

windchill. See the table on page 39.

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