We’re right in the thick of the snowmobiling season, and you’re probably itching to get out on your next adventure. But before you hop on your ride and feel yourself knifing through that crisp winter air, it’s important to make sure you’re fully prepared for an emergency scenario.

Sure, packing your emergency kit isn’t the most exciting thing about snowmobiling, but it’s absolutely necessary to ensure your safety should a worst-case scenario happen while you’re out on the trails.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the must-have items for your emergency kit.

First aid kit

First and most obvious, you must have a fully stocked first aid kit with you in your emergency pack every time you head out on your snowmobile. It should contains sufficient supplies to treat minor wounds and to keep you stable if you suffer a serious injury and need to wait for medical responders to arrive. You can find pre-organized first aid kits to purchase. Just make sure you restock the supplies as you use them.

Communication

Bring a fully charged cell phone with a wireless battery charger. In the event you get lost or have an emergency, you’ll need to be able to contact someone to come and help you. However, depending on where you’re snowmobiling, you should be aware that you might not have service. Consider using FRS/GMRS radios or HAM radios as well, and/or signaling devices or GPS beacons that can indicate your exact position to emergency responders if you’re stranded or hurt. Make sure the batteries for all of these devices are charged, and consider bringing backups.

Simple tools

It’s important to have a set of simple tools you can to make any minor repairs you need to make on your bike. You should also pack a small, foldable shovel in case you need to dig yourself out of a snowbank, a lighter or waterproof matches to start a fire if needed, and possibly some paper to help you get a fire started.

Food and water

Keep some simple nonperishable foods in your pack, such as protein bars, jerky or other extremely portable, high-energy foods. Make sure you also have plenty of fresh water available.

Flashlight

Just in case you get stranded in the dark, it’s important to have a flashlight with a fresh set of batteries so you can see. Get one with a high lumen count so you can light up the area around you with ease.

Clothing

In addition to dressing in layers, it’s a good idea to pack an extra set of dry clothes, just in case you get wet or dirty and want to make a change to help you stay comfortable. If the weather gets extremely cold, this also gives you additional layers you can put on. Make sure you’re also well outfitted with hand warmers, which you can stick inside your gloves or boots.

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Permits

If you need permits for riding your snowmobile or for being on a certain piece of land, make sure you have those permits with you in a protected bag or case.

Personal items

Any other personal items you might need while you’re out on the trails should also be accounted for in your emergency kit. This includes personal identification, medications, extra batteries or anything else that you might need while you’re out.

Preparing a safety or emergency kit isn’t the most exciting aspect of getting ready for a snowmobile trip, but it’s necessary to keep you safe and to help you ensure a positive experience when you hit the trails. Check your kit before you head out on your next winter adventure!