19
! WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Prevention
Overview
When using this 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 sit-
uation. Using ATV prevention 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.”
Remembering P.A.S.S. and what it stands
for will help you have a safe, predictable
ride every time you go out on your ATV.
Always wear clothing suited to the type
of riding you are doing. ATV riding
requires special protective clothing
which will make you feel more comfort-
able and reduce chances of injury.
ATV-0004A
You’ll find it important to dress correctly for
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 con-
tend 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 riding. A helmet
can prevent a severe 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 Transportation (DOT), The
Snell Memorial Foundation, or the Ameri-
can National Standards Institute (ANSI).
Helmets that comply with one or more of
these agency’s standards have a sticker on
the inside or outside 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 pro-
tection, 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 handlebars.
Off-road style gloves with knuckle pads are
the best for comfort and protection.
Safe Riding Clothing
and Gear (Operator and
Passenger)
Helmets should have one of these:
1. DOT label
2. Snell label
3. ANSI Z90.1 label
