Divi
sio
n
I
- Sa
fe
ty
! WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard that could
result in a serious injury or death.
17
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 con-
trol over the situation. Using ATV pre-
vention 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-0004
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
protection you need to wear during every
ride:
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 sur-
face 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 possi-
ble area of your leg (preferably 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.
Helmet
Your helmet is the most important piece
of protective gear for safe riding. A hel-
met 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 American National Standards
Institute (ANSI). Helmets that comply
with one or more of these agency’s stan-
dards have a sticker on the inside or out-
side of the helmet.
Safe Riding Clothing
and Gear