Knowing how to drive a snowmobile can keep it a fun activity rather than a major risk. Snowmobiles can be a lot of fun in the winter, but they can also be dangerous.
Before you even attempt to drive a snowmobile, make sure you're wearing a helmet. A snowmobiling accident can be very serious, even fatal, so always wear one and make sure that the chinstrap is securely fastened. Sit on the snowmobile with your feet underneath the stirrups. Stirrups will keep you balanced as you make turns or go over bumps.
Check snowmobile conditions before you venture out. A storm or particularly icy conditions do not make for safe snowmobiling and you could end up sliding out and getting injured or getting stuck somewhere in the wilderness.
Start the snowmobile according to the instruction manual. Now find the throttle, which will be located on the right side of the handlebar. The throttle is used to get your snowmobile to the desired speed. Both the throttle and the brake are operated using your thumbs. Locate the brake before you take off, located on the left side of the handlebar. In general, you can just let up on the throttle to slow down. If you need to slow down quickly, pump the brake.
To get going, give the motor a lot of gas. To turn, simply maneuver the handlebars in the direction you want to go. The faster you're going, the easier it is to turn, but you don't want to turn too quickly if you don't know what you're doing. Lean to the inside of the turn to keep your snowmobile grounded, making sure to keep your feet in the stirrups.
Make sure to follow standard safety procedures. Although having fun while snowmobiling is the goal, don't goof around or try to pull dangerous stunts. Make sure to maintain a respectable distance from other snowmobiles to avoid a collision.