You should know safe riding practices and be aware of the environmental concerns shared by responsible riders. Being prepared and knowing how to survive is your best safeguard in case of an emergency like a breakdown or sudden storm.
Plan Ahead
Good planning, following the recommended maintenance schedule of your ATV, travelling in the company of others and practising safe riding habits should eliminate most emergencies.
If you decide to ride in areas where a breakdown could threaten your survival, you should prepare yourself by learning survival techniques. In many provinces, survival information is available through provincial departments or agencies involved in outdoor recreation. Use these and other sources to gather survival information appropriate to the area you plan to ride.
Before you leave:
- Prepare and secure emergency supplies, tools, first aid kit and any other items necessary for your ride.
- Let someone know your route and when you should return.
- If you are stranded and you determine help is too far away to walk:
- Use good judgment and common sense. When facing an emergency, remain calm—panic is your worst enemy.
- If you need a fire, select a protected area away from the ATVs and any
overhanging branches containing dry leaves or snow. Start your fire using small dry sticks and branches, gradually adding larger pieces of wood as required. Before leaving your emergency shelter, make sure all ashes are smothered. One hot ash from your fire could destroy your entire riding area. If you have to spend the night, collect enough wood before it gets dark. - Whenever you are both stranded and injured, attend to injuries first, then sit down and think out solutions and possibilities.
- Do not travel on foot in strange areas after dark. Conserve all the energy you can because it will help keep you warm.
Survival Kit
A survival kit is an absolute necessity when planning a long ride on your ATV. Whether with a group or just a friend, a survival kit should be included with your supplies on each ride.
Prepare your kit according to the local conditions. It should easily fit into a can or other small, waterproof container. Just like the emergency food supply and tool kit, this survival kit applies to all terrain.
