MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS
Snowmobiling supports both mental and physical well-being — but when things go wrong, the impact can be lasting.
Whether you're a rider, responder, bystander, club volunteer, or family member—mental health is part of backcountry safety, and it's okay to talk about it. We prepare for the physical risks. But critical incidents can affect anyone, in unexpected ways and at unexpected times. Even the most experienced riders can be left with stress, self-doubt, or a sense of isolation.
We’re here to change that. This is about recognizing the unseen impacts, opening up the conversation, and making mental health a natural part of how we ride, support each other, and take care of our community.
DID YOU KNOW?
YOU’RE NOT ALONE IN HOW YOU FEEL. HERE IS WHAT WE HEARD DIRECTLY FROM RIDERS LIKE YOU…
41%
Of riders did nothing after experiencing a critical incident, with many feeling unsure of where to turn or how to cope.
32%
Of riders report stress, anxiety, or depression related to snowmobile incidents.
26%
Of riders felt equipped to support others during or after an incident.
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What Is A Critical Incident?
A critical incident is a sudden, high-stress event that overwhelms your normal ability to cope. In snowmobiling, this could be an avalanche, serious injury, fatality, medical emergency, or close call. These incidents are often unexpected and intense—but even smaller events can add up over time.
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What Is Critical Incident Stress?
Critical Incident Stress is your body and mind’s response to a traumatic or overwhelming event. It can happen after a single incident—or from repeated exposure to stress. Reactions like trouble sleeping, anxiety, irritability, or emotional numbness are common and may appear days or weeks later.
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Who Can Be Impacted?
It’s not just those directly involved. Riders, bystanders, responders, volunteers, friends, and family members can all feel the impact—whether they were on scene, supported someone after, or simply heard what happened. Everyone processes stress differently, and all reactions are valid.
Even in a tight-knit community like ours, talking about mental health can still feel hard. ChecK IN WITH SOMEONE TODAY. iNVITE THEM FOR A RIDE - YOU NEVER KNOW HOW MUCH THEY MIGHT NEED IT.
RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF STRESS
IF IT’S SOMEONE YOU KNOW
BUILD MENTAL RESILIENCE LIKE YOU BUILD RIDING SKILLS
We train for avalanches. We carry radios. We know how to fix a sled. But what about preparing our minds?
Mental resilience is your ability to manage stress, recover from tough experiences, and stay steady in high-pressure moments. It helps you stay focused during an incident—and supports your recovery afterward.
Like any skill, resilience can be built over time.
Simple ways to build resilience:
Practice calm under pressure: Try deep breathing or grounding techniques when stress kicks in - we promise, it really works!
Talk before it builds up: Open conversations help normalize mental load
Know your limits: Rest, regroup, and step back when you need to
Stay connected: Build strong riding crews and community support
Train your mindset: Reflect on past challenges you’ve overcome
Taking care of your mental health isn’t about being soft—it’s about being ready. Resilience doesn’t make you immune to stress. It just gives you the tools to ride it out.
If you or someone you know is struggling after an incident, help is available and closer than you think.
Emergency Contact Information
Call 9-1-1 if you are in an emergency.
Crisis Line
Call 1-800-784-2433 or dial 9-8-8 if you are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide.
Mental Health Support Line
310-6789 (no area code needed)
BCSF MEMBER INSURANCE BENEFIT
All BCSF club members are automatically entitled to a $4,000 Accidental Death & Dismemberment policy through our partner American Income Life.
Each year, this benefit helps support families during tragic events.
If your loved one has been involved in a serious incident, please reach out to the BCSF — we’re here to help connect you with this important support.