15
!
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Prevention
Overview
When using an ATV, prevention is the name of the game. “Had you
only known” something could go wrong, you would have prevented it.
If you don’t notice your conditions and surroundings before riding
your ATV, you give up control over the situation. Using ATV preven-
tion techniques helps you forecast potential hazards before they injure
you or damage your ATV.
Following the safety instructions and warnings in this manual will
help you “P.A.S.S.” the safety test. P.A.S.S. stands for “
P
revention,”
“
A
ctive Riding,” “
S
ound Judgment,” and “
S
upervision.” Remember-
ing P.A.S.S. and what it stands for will help you have a safe, predict-
able ride every time you go out on your ATV.
Always wear clothing suited to the type of rid-
ing you are doing. ATV riding requires special
protective clothing which will make you feel
more comfortable and reduce chances of
injury.
You’ll find it important to dress correctly for
ATV riding in order to prevent scraped skin
and serious head injuries. It’s easy and could
save you time in the long run not having to
contend with an injury. Of course, it also
makes sense to remember the seasons. Wear a
hat under your helmet and a snowmobile suit
in the winter and lighter, protective clothing in
the summer. Following is the minimum pro-
tection you need to wear during every ride.
Helmet
Your helmet is the most important piece of protective gear for safe rid-
ing. A helmet can prevent a serious head injury. There are several
types of helmets on the market, but make sure you wear a helmet that
complies with the current standards of the U.S. Department of Trans-
portation (DOT), The Snell Memorial Foundation, or the American
National Standards Institute (ANSI). Helmets that comply with one or
more of these agency’s standards have a sticker on the inside or out-
side of the helmet.
These helmets should provide full-face protection.
If you drop or damage your helmet, get a new
one immediately. Your helmet may not protect
your head from injury if it has cracks, fissures,
or other damage to its outside or core padding.
Remember, your helmet won’t do you any
good if the chin strap isn’t fastened.
Gloves
Your hands are targets for flying objects and branches. Along with
providing skin protection, gloves will shield your hands from harsh
weather. Wear gloves that are weather resistant and have a gripping
surface to keep them from sliding off the handlebar. Off-road style
gloves with knuckle pads are the best for comfort and protection.
Boots/Ankle Protection
Wear a boot that covers the largest possible area of your leg (prefera-
bly up to your knee) and can handle significant impact. Choosing
boots with low heels and a good tread will help prevent your feet from
slipping off the footrests in wet or rugged conditions or getting hurt if
they get hit by rocks, dirt, or branches.
Safe Riding Clothing and Gear
