Yellowstone Country Safety * Spike Strips *

It seems like the side-by-sides are getting larger and faster! I had several “very large” four-seaters drive by my cabin last week. Apparently even though they are as big as a car, they aren’t concerned with the speed limit because they are off-road vehicles. Anyone know where I can find a good deal on spike strips?

Yellowstone Country Safety * Heavy Shutters *

I was removing some shutters from a cabin this week that were constructed with 1X6 tongue and groove and 2x4 framing. Just a note of advice; if you are shuttering a six to eight foot picture window, use lighter material or plan on hiring a crane!

Yellowstone Country Safety * Avoid Hitting Spring Animals *

With the disappearance of the snow comes the increase in large animals migrating across the roadways. Slow down and drive cautiously. Animal/vehicle collisions can be deadly for a vehicle’s occupants, as well as the animal.

Yellowstone Country Safety * I found My Trailers *

I found my utility trailers this week. I knew they were under one of the snow mounds in the yard. I just wasn’t sure which one!

Yellowstone Country Safety * The Grizzlies are OUT! *

With the receding snow comes an increase in activity and range of the grizzly bears. Be cautious about storing garbage or leaving dog food outside.    

Yellowstone Country Safety * Trails are Not Ready *

I know that many are jonesing for some ATV action with the disintegration of the snow pac. The snowmobile trails are mushy and will not accommodate wheeled vehicles yet. Be patient and save yourself a hike.    

Yellowstone Country Safety * Mud Season Cooking *

With the arrival of mud season comes the limited opportunities to eat out. It is a great time to explore a few new recipes that you have yet to try.

Yellowstone Country Safety * we still have snow *

While the daytime temperatures are predicted to climb into the 50’s, it’s is premature to start calling about campground openings. We still have four feet of snow and it will take a while to melt!  

Yellowstone Country Safety * I wish the weather would decide *

I wish that the weather would decide what it is doing! The roads are too dry to ride my sled up to the trails and there is too much snow to start any of my spring projects.

Yellowstone Country Safety * Mountain Hazards *

The serenity of the mountains masks the dangers that it harbors. Please be cautious and feel free to as residents about the inherent hazards of the caldera. 

Yellowstone Country Safety * Icy Parking Lots *

The snow is melting during the day and freezing at night. The parking lots and driveways are very icy as a result. Wear shoes with heavy treads and be cautious. Performing a face-plant on the ice is painful! 

Yellowstone Country Safety * Wet Spring Snow *

The daytime temperatures have risen and the snow is soft and heavy. Keep your vehicles on plowed roads or memorize Joe’s phone number (208-351-6471) because “you won’t get out of the snow without a tow”. (I rhymed!) 

Yellowstone Country Safety * Spring is Almost Here *

With daytime temperatures climbing above freezing and the snow beginning to soften, spring is trying to peek out from under her blanket of white. It will be a while before she asserts herself but the slow transition has begun.

Yellowstone Country Safety * Winter Side Roads *

Many side roads are only snowmobile trails in the winter in Island Park. If there is no recent sign of a snowplow on a road that you are contemplating entering, STOP. If you proceed forward you will be buried up to your axles. 

Yellowstone Country Safety * Welcome Back Rance "

It was great to see Rance Dye out for the first time since his accident. He was excited to share in a little snowmobiling 

and ice fishing time with the scouts!

Yellowstone Country Safety * Beware of High Snow Berms *

The snow berms are getting high with the additional snow accumulation. Be cautious when approaching intersections with side streets, trails and driveways! Don’t let this great winter turn into your worst. 

Yellowstone Country Safety * Beware of Slide-Off *

Avoid parking your vehicle under where snow may slide off of a roof. It will severely damage your truck or sled.

Yellowstone Country Safety * Avoid Driving Sleds Continually on Hard Pack *

Avoid constantly operating snowmobiles on plowed roads and parking lots. Loose snow is thrown in the tunnel of the machine (under the seat) by the tracks to cool itself. Driving on hard pack deprives a snowmobile of the ability to regulate its temperature.  

Yellowstone Country Safety * Winter Go-bag *

With the great snow and the colder temperatures, be sure to pack a go-bag to take with you when venturing into the mountains. A couple of methods of starting fires (matches, lighters, etc.), paper towels in a Ziploc (for tinder or hinder), water, some food, a knife, a compass, a small tarp and some rope are all essential if you become stranded.

Yellowstone Country Safety * Report where you are sledding *

Tell others where you intend to ride before you set out on your sled. The snow is deep and soft and it’s easy to get stuck. We don’t want to wait until spring to find you.