ATV SafetyATV SafetyTransportation SHSMTransportation SHSM

Welcome to the ATV Safety CourseWelcome to the ATV Safety Course

No matter what your ATV riding experience is, from beginner to seasoned No matter what your ATV riding experience is, from beginner to seasoned rider, safety always plays an important role in riding. In fact, the most rider, safety always plays an important role in riding. In fact, the most important thing when operating an ATV is safety.important thing when operating an ATV is safety.

The following information has been taken from the ATV Safety Institute. This The following information has been taken from the ATV Safety Institute. This course is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of riding, and to help course is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of riding, and to help you develop safe riding practices so you can enjoy the sport for many years you develop safe riding practices so you can enjoy the sport for many years to come.to come.

By the time you are done with this course, you’ll have the knowledge you By the time you are done with this course, you’ll have the knowledge you need to help you have a fun, safe and enjoyable ATV riding experience. need to help you have a fun, safe and enjoyable ATV riding experience.

You’ll also get the necessary skills to keep control of your ATV, which will lead You’ll also get the necessary skills to keep control of your ATV, which will lead you to a more comfortable ride and move you towards riding excellence.you to a more comfortable ride and move you towards riding excellence.

Remember, ATV’s are NOT toys. They are designed for a single driver and Remember, ATV’s are NOT toys. They are designed for a single driver and are not designed to carry passengers. Unless, of course, the ATV isare not designed to carry passengers. Unless, of course, the ATV isspecifically designed for two passengers. When operating your ATV, you specifically designed for two passengers. When operating your ATV, you should ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody else should ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody else Unfortunately serious injury or death can be the result of improper use of Unfortunately serious injury or death can be the result of improper use of ATV’s.ATV’s.

However, with preparation and practice, However, with preparation and practice, you’ll safely develop and expand your riding skills.you’ll safely develop and expand your riding skills.

Some people think that accidents only happen to other people. This Some people think that accidents only happen to other people. This

is not true. Hundreds of ATV riders each year, including many children die, is not true. Hundreds of ATV riders each year, including many children die,

become paralyzed or suffer from severe internal injuries as the result of become paralyzed or suffer from severe internal injuries as the result of

accidents associated with ATV’s. accidents associated with ATV’s.

The fact is, accidents can happen to anyone at anytime. But most accidents The fact is, accidents can happen to anyone at anytime. But most accidents

can be prevented with proper planning and responsible behaviour. Before can be prevented with proper planning and responsible behaviour. Before

operating an ATV for the first time, you should take a training course on operating an ATV for the first time, you should take a training course on

how to ride your ATV safely. how to ride your ATV safely.

How much do you think about safety? The How much do you think about safety? The decisions you make everyday decisions you make everyday

play a big part in your personal safety.play a big part in your personal safety.

Risk Assessment SurveyRisk Assessment SurveyHow often DO you or WILL you wear the following items when riding How often DO you or WILL you wear the following items when riding an ATV? an ATV? Complete the following survey on paper by keeping track of your Complete the following survey on paper by keeping track of your number of “Never,” “Sometimes,” and “Always” answers in order to assess number of “Never,” “Sometimes,” and “Always” answers in order to assess your level of risk.your level of risk.

NeverNever SometimesSometimes AlwaysAlways

Helmet Helmet

Over-the-ankle bootsOver-the-ankle boots

Tennis shoesTennis shoes

Flip-flop sandalsFlip-flop sandals

Long-sleeved shirt/jacketLong-sleeved shirt/jacket

Short-sleeved shirtShort-sleeved shirt

GogglesGoggles

Sunglasses without gogglesSunglasses without goggles

Long pantsLong pants

ShortsShorts

GlovesGloves

Risk Assessment Survey Cont’dRisk Assessment Survey Cont’dHow often to you plan on doing the following before or while riding How often to you plan on doing the following before or while riding and ATV?and ATV?

NeverNever SometimesSometimes AlwaysAlways

Allow a child to ride your adult-sized ATV Allow a child to ride your adult-sized ATV

Consume alcohol or other drugs Consume alcohol or other drugs

Have a first aid kit Have a first aid kit

Have a tool kit Have a tool kit

Inspect your ATV prior to riding Inspect your ATV prior to riding

Carry a passenger on a single rider ATV Carry a passenger on a single rider ATV

Ride as a passenger on a single rider ATV Ride as a passenger on a single rider ATV

Ride on paved roadsRide on paved roads

Ride on public highways Ride on public highways

Risk AwarenessRisk Awareness

Do you wear the proper protective ATV riding Do you wear the proper protective ATV riding gear?gear?

– Inadequate riding gear will increase your chances Inadequate riding gear will increase your chances of severe personal injury in the event of an of severe personal injury in the event of an accidentaccident

Do you maintain your machine in good operating Do you maintain your machine in good operating condition?condition?

– If your machine is not in good working order, you If your machine is not in good working order, you risk being stranded. Remember, you can usually risk being stranded. Remember, you can usually ride further in one hour than you can walk in a ride further in one hour than you can walk in a day. Mechanical problems can also lead to day. Mechanical problems can also lead to accidents.accidents.

Do you ride in a safe and responsible manner?Do you ride in a safe and responsible manner?– Riding in an unsafe manner such as excessive Riding in an unsafe manner such as excessive

speed and doing wheelies, jumps or other stunts speed and doing wheelies, jumps or other stunts increase your odds of being seriously injured, increase your odds of being seriously injured, paralyzed or being killed. You also risk injuring or paralyzed or being killed. You also risk injuring or killing another person or damaging your machine killing another person or damaging your machine or other property.or other property.

Do you use a risk management strategy while Do you use a risk management strategy while riding?riding?

– Not using a risk management system to make Not using a risk management system to make good decisions while riding greatly increase your good decisions while riding greatly increase your chances of being in an accident.chances of being in an accident.

Being attentive of the environment around you and being a good decision Being attentive of the environment around you and being a good decision

maker helps you minimize and manage risk during your ride. Learning to maker helps you minimize and manage risk during your ride. Learning to

organize your thought processes by using effective thinking strategies while organize your thought processes by using effective thinking strategies while

riding will help you reduce your risk in changing or difficult situations.riding will help you reduce your risk in changing or difficult situations. No No

other vehicle requires the same as an ATV.other vehicle requires the same as an ATV.

ATV Safety QuizATV Safety QuizComplete the following safety quiz and keep track of your answers on paper.

1. ATVs are made to carry ____ person(s)1. ATVs are made to carry ____ person(s)

a) 0 b) 1 c) 2 d) 3a) 0 b) 1 c) 2 d) 3   

2. The most important thing when operating an ATV is:2. The most important thing when operating an ATV is:

a) The ATV is in good running conditiona) The ATV is in good running conditionb) How fast will the ATV runb) How fast will the ATV runc) Safetyc) Safetyd) Make sure that the person riding with you is holding on tight.d) Make sure that the person riding with you is holding on tight.

    3. When operating your ATV, you should:3. When operating your ATV, you should:

a) Ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody a) Ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody else.else.

b) Ask a friend to ride THEIR ATV along with you.b) Ask a friend to ride THEIR ATV along with you.c) Ride as fast as you can.c) Ride as fast as you can.d) None of the above are correct riding procedures. ATV operators d) None of the above are correct riding procedures. ATV operators

under age ___ need parent’s permission before riding ATVs.under age ___ need parent’s permission before riding ATVs.

4.4. Before operating an ATV for the very first time, you should:Before operating an ATV for the very first time, you should:

a) Check the temperature outside.a) Check the temperature outside.b) Take a training course on how to ride your ATV safely.b) Take a training course on how to ride your ATV safely.c) Check to see if there is mud on the ATV’s tires.c) Check to see if there is mud on the ATV’s tires.d) Drive the ATV to determine how fast it will go. d) Drive the ATV to determine how fast it will go.

5.5. Which of the following vehicles requires the same skills as an ATV?Which of the following vehicles requires the same skills as an ATV?

a) Bicyclea) Bicycle

b) Motorcycleb) Motorcycle

c) Carc) Car

d) None of the aboved) None of the above

ATV Safety Quiz AnswersATV Safety Quiz Answers

1. – b 1. – b (one person)(one person)

    2. – c 2. – c (safety)(safety)

    3. – a 3. – a (Ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt (Ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody else)somebody else)

    4. – b 4. – b (take a training course on how to ride your ATV (take a training course on how to ride your ATV safely)safely)

    5. – d 5. – d (none of the above)(none of the above)

   

    http://www.spinnlerpoint.org/html/atv_safety_quiz.htmlhttp://www.spinnlerpoint.org/html/atv_safety_quiz.html

Before You RideBefore You Ride

ATV’s are quite different from ATV’s are quite different from other vehicles you may have other vehicles you may have operated including:operated including:

BicyclesBicycles TricyclesTricycles MotorcyclesMotorcycles CarsCars Other off-highway Other off-highway

vehiclesvehicles

ATV’s are rider active, and most ATV’s are rider active, and most

have a solid drive axle. Rider active have a solid drive axle. Rider active

means there is more physical means there is more physical

demand in riding and ATV than demand in riding and ATV than

driving your car. The rider must driving your car. The rider must

adjusting their body position to adjusting their body position to

enhance the maneuverability of the enhance the maneuverability of the

ATV. ATV.

Independent drive axles make Independent drive axles make

your ATV a more capable off-road your ATV a more capable off-road

vehicle as it provides better traction vehicle as it provides better traction

and distributes power to both and distributes power to both

wheels.wheels.

Protective GearProtective Gear

The nature of ATV riding demands that The nature of ATV riding demands that

you wear the proper protective gear. you wear the proper protective gear.

Knowing what to wear and how to wear Knowing what to wear and how to wear

it will make you feel more comfortable it will make you feel more comfortable

when you ride and reduce injury.when you ride and reduce injury.

HelmetsHelmetsFor many outdoor sports a helmet is a pre-requisite to safety For many outdoor sports a helmet is a pre-requisite to safety but there is much more to it than just that. When purchasingbut there is much more to it than just that. When purchasinga helmet, you should consider the following key points:a helmet, you should consider the following key points:

There are various different types of helmets available however the best ATV helmets will usually be those specially designed for Motocross.

Full face is the only way to go if you like to get a bit of speed up every now and then or if you ride your ATV aggressively.

It might sound stupid but make sure the helmet, when you try it on, is comfortable. In fact, always try on two or three different helmets in two or three sizes. You'll be amazed at the difference.

Make sure your ATV helmet is neither too tight or too loose. Buying a helmet that is too

large is a common failing of ATV riders.

Make sure it is DOT and/or Snell Certified.

Make sure any face shields are certified to VESC-8 or ANSI Z-87.

Never buy a used helmet unless you are 100% confident it has an accident free history. It might look good but you don't want to find out it was a piece of junk when you've just head butted a tree.

Eye ProtectionEye Protection To ride safely, you must be able to see To ride safely, you must be able to see

clearly, which means you need eye clearly, which means you need eye protection. Getting hit in the face by rocks, protection. Getting hit in the face by rocks, bugs and branches may distract you, but they bugs and branches may distract you, but they also may result in the loss of vision.also may result in the loss of vision.

Sunglasses don’t provide the optimal Sunglasses don’t provide the optimal protection when riding and ATV. Goggles, protection when riding and ATV. Goggles, riding glasses, or a face shield will give you riding glasses, or a face shield will give you the proper protection you need.the proper protection you need.

Goggles should be scratch free, secured to Goggles should be scratch free, secured to your helmet and have proper ventilation to your helmet and have proper ventilation to prevent fogging prevent fogging

ClothingClothingWearing the proper protection clothing every time you ride is key to ensuring possible Wearing the proper protection clothing every time you ride is key to ensuring possible

body protection.body protection.

When riding, you should wear a long-sleeved shirt and long When riding, you should wear a long-sleeved shirt and long

pants to protect your arms, body and legs from cuts and pants to protect your arms, body and legs from cuts and

scratches.scratches.

To help prevent your hands from getting sore, tired, or cold To help prevent your hands from getting sore, tired, or cold

and to protect your hands in the event of an accident, you will and to protect your hands in the event of an accident, you will

require a good quality pair of gloves. require a good quality pair of gloves.

To protect your feet, strong pair of over–the-ankle boots with To protect your feet, strong pair of over–the-ankle boots with

low heels are recommended to help prevent your feet from low heels are recommended to help prevent your feet from

slipping off the footrests and to protect your feet and ankles slipping off the footrests and to protect your feet and ankles

from surface debris and obstacles.from surface debris and obstacles.

ATV FamiliarityATV FamiliarityAs with any piece of technology, it is important to understand the parts of the As with any piece of technology, it is important to understand the parts of the machine. Although all machines are not exactly the same, these are the basic machine. Although all machines are not exactly the same, these are the basic parts that you should be familiar with.parts that you should be familiar with.

Parking BrakeParking Brake – the parking brake – the parking brake should always be engaged when starting should always be engaged when starting

the machine, when transporting the machine the machine, when transporting the machine and when parking.and when parking.

Brake LeverBrake Lever – located on the front right handlebar, – located on the front right handlebar, the brake lever is for the front brakes and should the brake lever is for the front brakes and should always be used along with the foot brake to maintain proper control.always be used along with the foot brake to maintain proper control.

Throttle ControlThrottle Control – located on the right handlebar and is used with the thumb. – located on the right handlebar and is used with the thumb. Remember too much throttle, too quickly, can lead to an accident.Remember too much throttle, too quickly, can lead to an accident.

Ignition SwitchIgnition Switch – allows you to start the machine and secure it if you remove the – allows you to start the machine and secure it if you remove the key.key.

ChokeChoke – turn on the choke when starting a cold engine, then turn it off when the – turn on the choke when starting a cold engine, then turn it off when the engine is warm and before riding.engine is warm and before riding.

Engine Stop SwitchEngine Stop Switch –located on the left handlebar, it is used to quickly turn off the –located on the left handlebar, it is used to quickly turn off the machine without taking your hands of the handle bars.machine without taking your hands of the handle bars.

Headlight SwitchHeadlight Switch – to turn on or off the headlights. Important to use when driving – to turn on or off the headlights. Important to use when driving at night or darker environments.at night or darker environments.

Foot BrakeFoot Brake – located on the right side and controls the rear brakes. Use it along – located on the right side and controls the rear brakes. Use it along with the brake lever for a smooth and controlled stop.with the brake lever for a smooth and controlled stop.

Fuel Shut Off ValveFuel Shut Off Valve – shuts off the fuel source and should be switched to off when – shuts off the fuel source and should be switched to off when you’re not using the machine. There is also a reserve setting which utilizes the you’re not using the machine. There is also a reserve setting which utilizes the reserve fuel tank in case you run out of gas.reserve fuel tank in case you run out of gas.

Shift LeverShift Lever – allows you to change gears if you have a manual transmission. Some – allows you to change gears if you have a manual transmission. Some vehicles also have shift buttons located on the left handlebar.vehicles also have shift buttons located on the left handlebar.

REMEMBER…you should always read your owners manual to have a full REMEMBER…you should always read your owners manual to have a full understanding of the parts and uses of your specific vehicle.understanding of the parts and uses of your specific vehicle.

Pre-Ride InspectionPre-Ride Inspection

To minimize your chance of breaking down when riding, you should always To minimize your chance of breaking down when riding, you should always perform a pre-ride inspection. An easy way to remember this step-by-step perform a pre-ride inspection. An easy way to remember this step-by-step inspection is by the acronym TCLOC.inspection is by the acronym TCLOC.

T – T – Tires and WheelsTires and Wheels (keep tires inflated to the tire pressure according to the (keep tires inflated to the tire pressure according to the owners manual, make sure tire pressures are the same on both sides, check tire owners manual, make sure tire pressures are the same on both sides, check tire conditions for cuts or gouges, make sure wheel and axle nuts are tight and secure).conditions for cuts or gouges, make sure wheel and axle nuts are tight and secure).

C – C – Controls and CablesControls and Cables (moves smoothly and snaps closed, check for damage (moves smoothly and snaps closed, check for damage and buildup, brake controls operate smoothly).and buildup, brake controls operate smoothly).

L – L – Lights and ElectricalLights and Electrical (engine turns off and on, check for burnt out bulbs).(engine turns off and on, check for burnt out bulbs).

O – O – Oil and FuelOil and Fuel (fill oil to the correct level before starting the engine, check for (fill oil to the correct level before starting the engine, check for leaks, always start the machine with a full tank of fuel, make sure the air filter is leaks, always start the machine with a full tank of fuel, make sure the air filter is clean and in good condition).clean and in good condition).

C – C – Chain and Drive Shaft and/or ChassisChain and Drive Shaft and/or Chassis (check chain for excessive wear, (check chain for excessive wear, proper adjustment, proper lubrication, check drive shaft for oil leaks and oil level, proper adjustment, proper lubrication, check drive shaft for oil leaks and oil level, check all over for loose parts).check all over for loose parts).

Tool KitTool Kit

SSince the auto club isn’t minutes away ince the auto club isn’t minutes away

if you break down on the trail, you if you break down on the trail, you should prepare and carry a tool kit should prepare and carry a tool kit that includes the following:that includes the following:

Extra spark plugsExtra spark plugs Electrical tapeElectrical tape Spare bulbsSpare bulbs Mechanics wireMechanics wire Duct tapeDuct tape KnifeKnife FlashlightFlashlight Tow strap (or 10 foot rope)Tow strap (or 10 foot rope) Spark plug wrenchSpark plug wrench WrenchesWrenches Screw drivesScrew drives PliersPliers Tire repair kitTire repair kit

The RideThe Ride

When mounting the ATV, what doWhen mounting the ATV, what doyou absolutely need to do first?you absolutely need to do first?

a) Grab the handlebar with one a) Grab the handlebar with one handhand

b) Place your foot on the footrestb) Place your foot on the footrest

c) Turn on the ignitionc) Turn on the ignition

d) Set the parking braked) Set the parking brake

ANSWER: ANSWER: d) Set the parking braked) Set the parking brake Always set the parking brake before Always set the parking brake before

mounting the ATV so it doesn’t start rolling mounting the ATV so it doesn’t start rolling as you get on.as you get on.

Grasp the handlebarGrasp the handlebar Place your foot on the footrestPlace your foot on the footrest Lean over and grasp the other handlebarLean over and grasp the other handlebar Swing your other leg over the seat and place it on the other footrestSwing your other leg over the seat and place it on the other footrest Sit down in a comfortable position, centered on the ATVSit down in a comfortable position, centered on the ATV

MountingMounting

PosturePosture

Head and eye up, looking well aheadHead and eye up, looking well ahead Back straightBack straight Shoulders relaxedShoulders relaxed Elbows bent slightlyElbows bent slightly Both hands on the handlebarsBoth hands on the handlebars Knees tucked in towards the gas tankKnees tucked in towards the gas tank Both feet on the footrests with toes Both feet on the footrests with toes

facing towards the front of the bikefacing towards the front of the bike

Starting The ATVStarting The ATVDifferent ATV’s may have different starting procedures, but starting the engine is usually Different ATV’s may have different starting procedures, but starting the engine is usually

pretty straightforward by following some simple steps:pretty straightforward by following some simple steps:

First, make sure the parking brake is setFirst, make sure the parking brake is set Then turn the fuel and ignition key switch to the “on” positionThen turn the fuel and ignition key switch to the “on” position Make sure that the transmission is in either park or neutral and check that the start Make sure that the transmission is in either park or neutral and check that the start

switch is in the “run” position.switch is in the “run” position. If your ATV has a choke, se the choke to the “on” position if the engine is cold.If your ATV has a choke, se the choke to the “on” position if the engine is cold. Finally, turn on the engine and turn off the choke as the engine warms.Finally, turn on the engine and turn off the choke as the engine warms.

REMEMBER to always refer to your ATV owner’s manual for specific start-up procedures. REMEMBER to always refer to your ATV owner’s manual for specific start-up procedures.

As a general guideline, the acronym As a general guideline, the acronym BONE-CBONE-C will help you remember the basic ATV starting will help you remember the basic ATV starting procedures. procedures.

BB – BRAKE (set the parking brake) – BRAKE (set the parking brake)

OO – ON (turn the fuel cap vent ON, and the fuel valve to ON, then turn on the ignition – ON (turn the fuel cap vent ON, and the fuel valve to ON, then turn on the ignition

NN – NEUTRAL (make sure the transmission is in neutral) – NEUTRAL (make sure the transmission is in neutral)

EE – ENGINE STOP SWITCH (place the engine stop switch in the run or start position)– ENGINE STOP SWITCH (place the engine stop switch in the run or start position)

CC – CHOKE (if the engine is cold, set the choke to the ON position, remember to turn it off – CHOKE (if the engine is cold, set the choke to the ON position, remember to turn it off when the engine gets warm)when the engine gets warm)

BrakingBraking

What is the most important thing to rememberWhat is the most important thing to remember

when braking?when braking?

a) Release the throttlea) Release the throttle

b) Apply both brakesb) Apply both brakes

c) Shift into a lower gear to use the engine to slow downc) Shift into a lower gear to use the engine to slow down

d) Look ahead, not at the ground directly in front of you.d) Look ahead, not at the ground directly in front of you.

ANSWER: b) Apply both brakes as it makes for a smoother and ANSWER: b) Apply both brakes as it makes for a smoother and more controlled stop. more controlled stop.

Braking TipsBraking Tips

Avoid having to brake while Avoid having to brake while cornering. If you go into the cornering. If you go into the corner too fast, you are likely to corner too fast, you are likely to loose control.loose control.

When riding on slippery surfaces, When riding on slippery surfaces, apply both brakes lightly to avoid apply both brakes lightly to avoid locking the wheels.locking the wheels.

Keep your feet on the footrests at Keep your feet on the footrests at ALL times.ALL times.

ParkingParking When parking the ATV, always try to When parking the ATV, always try to

park on flat ground.park on flat ground.

Shift the transmission into neutral or Shift the transmission into neutral or park.park.

Stop the engine using the engine stop Stop the engine using the engine stop switch.switch.

Turn off the ignition key switch.Turn off the ignition key switch.

Set the parking brake mechanism to Set the parking brake mechanism to keep the ATV from rolling.keep the ATV from rolling.

Turn the fuel off.Turn the fuel off.

Dismount the ATV.Dismount the ATV.

TurningTurning

There is more to turning an ATV than just twisting the handlebars. There is more to turning an ATV than just twisting the handlebars. There are interactive forces working on the ATV and the rider. There are interactive forces working on the ATV and the rider. For one, there is the downward pull of gravity, and two, there is the For one, there is the downward pull of gravity, and two, there is the centrifugal force essentially pulls both rider and machine to the outside of the turn. This centrifugal force essentially pulls both rider and machine to the outside of the turn. This is due to the amount of momentum you carry into the turn. Which means the faster you is due to the amount of momentum you carry into the turn. Which means the faster you approach the turn, the greater the force there is on you and your ATV. That’s why you approach the turn, the greater the force there is on you and your ATV. That’s why you should always practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. should always practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds.

The key to turning safely is to turn your body weight forward and to the inside of the The key to turning safely is to turn your body weight forward and to the inside of the turn to help counteract the increase of the turning forces. Then as you turn the turn to help counteract the increase of the turning forces. Then as you turn the Handlebars, look in the direction of the turn. This will help keep your eyes focused on Handlebars, look in the direction of the turn. This will help keep your eyes focused on where you are going and help maintain your lean into the turn. As you increase speed or where you are going and help maintain your lean into the turn. As you increase speed or turn more sharply, you will have to move your body further toward the inside. If your turn more sharply, you will have to move your body further toward the inside. If your ATV starts to tip, lean your body further to the inside and gradually make a wider turn.ATV starts to tip, lean your body further to the inside and gradually make a wider turn.

Riding on trails sometimes requires you to make shaper turns in order to stay on the Riding on trails sometimes requires you to make shaper turns in order to stay on the path. When making sharper turns, be sure to slow down before making the turn and path. When making sharper turns, be sure to slow down before making the turn and shift your weight more.shift your weight more.

Successful turning is a combination of speed, body position and weight shifting.Successful turning is a combination of speed, body position and weight shifting.

Terrain RidingTerrain Riding

To get the most out of your ride, To get the most out of your ride, you must know the surface or you must know the surface or terrain you are riding on. Make terrain you are riding on. Make sure you look well ahead on the sure you look well ahead on the trail, know what’s coming up, and trail, know what’s coming up, and be prepared to respond long be prepared to respond long before you get there. before you get there.

Riding Up HillsRiding Up Hills

Climbing hills improperly could cause you to lose control or cause the ATV to Climbing hills improperly could cause you to lose control or cause the ATV to

overturn. This could result in serious injury or death.overturn. This could result in serious injury or death.

What adjustments do you need to make in order to safely climb a hill?What adjustments do you need to make in order to safely climb a hill?

SpeedSpeed Weight Weight ShiftShift

GearGear

IncreaseIncrease ForwardForward Higher GearHigher Gear

No ChangeNo Change No ChangeNo Change No ChangeNo Change

DecreaseDecrease BackwardBackward Lower GearLower Gear

Answer:Answer:

Increase speedIncrease speed

Forward weight shiftForward weight shift

Lower gearLower gear

The key to climbing hills is to keep your The key to climbing hills is to keep your

weight forward at all times. Move up on weight forward at all times. Move up on

the seat and lean forward OR you can the seat and lean forward OR you can

stand and position your torso over the stand and position your torso over the

front wheels. This will keep your front front wheels. This will keep your front

wheels from lifting which could otherwise wheels from lifting which could otherwise

cause your ATV to flip backwards. You cause your ATV to flip backwards. You

should also shift into a lower gear and should also shift into a lower gear and

speed up before climbing the hill so you speed up before climbing the hill so you

can maintain momentum. can maintain momentum.

When climbing hills remember that some When climbing hills remember that some

hills are too steep for your abilities and hills are too steep for your abilities and

some hills are too steep for your ATV, some hills are too steep for your ATV,

regardless of your abilities. regardless of your abilities.

Riding Down HillsRiding Down HillsGoing downhill, much like going uphill, could cause serious risk to your safety Going downhill, much like going uphill, could cause serious risk to your safety

if you don’t take a cautious approach. if you don’t take a cautious approach.

What adjustments do you need to make in order to safely ride down a hill?What adjustments do you need to make in order to safely ride down a hill?

SpeedSpeed Weight ShiftWeight Shift GearGear

IncreaseIncrease ForwardForward Higher GearHigher Gear

No ChangeNo Change No ChangeNo Change No ChangeNo Change

DecreaseDecrease BackwardBackward Lower GearLower Gear

Answer:Answer:

Decrease speedDecrease speed

Backward weight shiftBackward weight shift

Lower gearLower gear

When riding down hills, choose a path that is as straight as possible, with no When riding down hills, choose a path that is as straight as possible, with no

obstacles. As you go down the hill remember to shift your weight to the rear obstacles. As you go down the hill remember to shift your weight to the rear

of the ATV, keep your speed low to maintain control , use a lower gear and of the ATV, keep your speed low to maintain control , use a lower gear and

look ahead. look ahead.

When you ride across a slope, rather than up or down it, it’s called traversing. When you ride across a slope, rather than up or down it, it’s called traversing.

What adjustments would you need in order to traverse a slope?What adjustments would you need in order to traverse a slope?

SpeedSpeed Weight ShiftWeight Shift GearGear

IncreaseIncrease

NN

EE

Away Away U U IntoInto

From From T T TheThe

Hill Hill R R HillHill

AA

LL

Higher GearHigher Gear

No ChangeNo Change No ChangeNo Change

DecreaseDecrease Lower GearLower Gear

ANSWER:ANSWER:

No change in No change in speedspeed

Weight shift Weight shift into the hillinto the hill

No change in No change in geargear

TraversingTraversing

When traversing a slope it is important to When traversing a slope it is important to keep both feet on the footrests. Do not keep both feet on the footrests. Do not put your foot out for balance. Instead, put your foot out for balance. Instead, lean your body towards the uphill side of lean your body towards the uphill side of the slope to keep your ATV’s wheels in the slope to keep your ATV’s wheels in contact with the slope. If the ATV begins contact with the slope. If the ATV begins to tip, turn the front wheels downhill if the to tip, turn the front wheels downhill if the terrain allows. If the terrain does not terrain allows. If the terrain does not allow, dismount the ATV on the uphill side allow, dismount the ATV on the uphill side of the slope. Also, avoid making any of the slope. Also, avoid making any sudden throttle changes. Keep in mind, if sudden throttle changes. Keep in mind, if you’re riding on a soft terrain, you might you’re riding on a soft terrain, you might need to turn your front wheels gently into need to turn your front wheels gently into the hill to keep your ATV on a straight line the hill to keep your ATV on a straight line across the slope.across the slope.

ObstaclesObstacles

Expert riders avoid obstacles whenever possible. However, you can cross Expert riders avoid obstacles whenever possible. However, you can cross

smaller obstacles with your ATV such as fallen branches, rocks, mounds of smaller obstacles with your ATV such as fallen branches, rocks, mounds of

dirt and ruts.dirt and ruts.

When approaching obstacles, you should do the following techniques:When approaching obstacles, you should do the following techniques: Hold the handgrips firmly.Hold the handgrips firmly. Stand on the footrests with you knees and elbows firmly bent so you can Stand on the footrests with you knees and elbows firmly bent so you can

use them as shock absorbers.use them as shock absorbers. Then approach the obstacle on an angle as close to 90Then approach the obstacle on an angle as close to 90o o as possible. This as possible. This

will help to ensure that you have the most stability. will help to ensure that you have the most stability. Adjust your approach speed prior to the obstacle without losing Adjust your approach speed prior to the obstacle without losing

momentum.momentum. You might need to apply a small amount of throttle as the front wheels You might need to apply a small amount of throttle as the front wheels

meet the obstacle.meet the obstacle. Make sure you release the throttle as soon as the front wheels have gone Make sure you release the throttle as soon as the front wheels have gone

over the obstacle.over the obstacle.

REMEMBERREMEMBER

ATV’s are strictly designed for off-road use only.ATV’s are strictly designed for off-road use only.

One of the leading causes of fatalities and injury to ATV riders is due to riding One of the leading causes of fatalities and injury to ATV riders is due to riding

on roads and getting hit by a car. Your ATV also handles differently on paved on roads and getting hit by a car. Your ATV also handles differently on paved

roads. On occasion, you may find it necessary to cross a road or highway. If roads. On occasion, you may find it necessary to cross a road or highway. If

you must cross a road, use the following guidelines to minimize your risk:you must cross a road, use the following guidelines to minimize your risk:

Make sure you know your provinces laws and regulations.Make sure you know your provinces laws and regulations. Before crossing, make sure you bring your ATV to a complete stop on the Before crossing, make sure you bring your ATV to a complete stop on the

shoulder of the road.shoulder of the road. Yield the right of way to all oncoming traffic and look both ways.Yield the right of way to all oncoming traffic and look both ways. Drive cautiously and cross the road at a 90Drive cautiously and cross the road at a 90oo where there are no where there are no

obstructions and your visibility is good.obstructions and your visibility is good.

Hazard ReactionHazard ReactionIt is important to remember that ATV’s brake differently than a car. Rough, It is important to remember that ATV’s brake differently than a car. Rough, slippery, or loose terrain mean your ATV tires have less grip. If you slam on slippery, or loose terrain mean your ATV tires have less grip. If you slam on the brakes, you are likely to go into a skid. To avoid this, practice making the brakes, you are likely to go into a skid. To avoid this, practice making quick stops in a flat open area at low speeds to get use to how your ATV quick stops in a flat open area at low speeds to get use to how your ATV responds to your braking.responds to your braking.

Some safe quick stopping techniques include:Some safe quick stopping techniques include: Use both brakes when stopping.Use both brakes when stopping. Keep your weight to the inside of the turn when stopping in the middle of a Keep your weight to the inside of the turn when stopping in the middle of a

turn.turn. If you accidentally lock the brakes, release the brakes momentarily and If you accidentally lock the brakes, release the brakes momentarily and

reapply them gradually.reapply them gradually. Always keep your feet on the footrests.Always keep your feet on the footrests.

In some situations, you may not have time to stop, such as when an animal In some situations, you may not have time to stop, such as when an animal darts out in front of you. In these cases, you will need to swerve to miss the darts out in front of you. In these cases, you will need to swerve to miss the obstacle. Remember to not brake WHEN swerving. Only brake after obstacle. Remember to not brake WHEN swerving. Only brake after swerving and the ATV is heading in a straight line. swerving and the ATV is heading in a straight line.

Riding StrategyRiding Strategy

A good riding strategy will prevent you from A good riding strategy will prevent you from

have to swerve. have to swerve.

This good riding strategy includes:This good riding strategy includes:

Scanning the terrain several seconds ahead Scanning the terrain several seconds ahead of your intended path.of your intended path.

NEVER riding faster than your visibility NEVER riding faster than your visibility allows.allows.

Give yourself time to smoothly RESPOND to Give yourself time to smoothly RESPOND to hazards instead of reacting to them at the hazards instead of reacting to them at the last second.last second.

Quick Facts on Hazard ReactionQuick Facts on Hazard Reaction

Answer the following questions to learn about hazard reactions.Answer the following questions to learn about hazard reactions.

1. 1. Stopping quickly or swerving is easier and safer at faster speeds than at lower Stopping quickly or swerving is easier and safer at faster speeds than at lower speeds.speeds.

TRUETRUE FALSEFALSE

2. 2. You should not brake while swerving.You should not brake while swerving.

TRUETRUE FALSEFALSE

3.3. You should always keep your You should always keep your feet on feet on the footrests when making an the footrests when making an

emergency maneuver.emergency maneuver.

TRUETRUE FALSEFALSE

Answers:Answers:

1.1. FalseFalse – stopping or – stopping or swerving is always safer swerving is always safer at slow speeds.at slow speeds.

2.2. TrueTrue – you should never – you should never brake while swerving. brake while swerving. Only afterwards when Only afterwards when your ATV is traveling in a your ATV is traveling in a straight line.straight line.

3.3. TrueTrue – always keep feet – always keep feet on footrests to avoid on footrests to avoid potential injury.potential injury.

ConclusionConclusionThere is a lot to know about riding ATV’s. There is a lot to know about riding ATV’s. You’ve learned that part of the risk You’ve learned that part of the risk associated with ATV riding can be associated with ATV riding can be managed if you wear protective gear and managed if you wear protective gear and constantly survey your surroundings. constantly survey your surroundings. Ultimately, it’s up to you to make smart Ultimately, it’s up to you to make smart choices. Don’t let peer pressure get to choices. Don’t let peer pressure get to you when someone says “hey...lets go you when someone says “hey...lets go jump over those mounds of dirt.” Trust jump over those mounds of dirt.” Trust me, it’s a lot more fun to enjoy the ATV me, it’s a lot more fun to enjoy the ATV experience than break your neck by being experience than break your neck by being careless. careless.

I hope you enjoyed your ATV safety course I hope you enjoyed your ATV safety course and learned how to properly prepare for and and learned how to properly prepare for and drive an ATV.drive an ATV.

Now complete the following TEST to Now complete the following TEST to challenge your ATV knowledge.challenge your ATV knowledge.

CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE DONE!CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE DONE!

You may now move on to the test!You may now move on to the test!