The document discusses the importance of ATV safety. It introduces an ATV safety course that teaches riders fundamentals and safe riding practices. The goal is for riders to have fun while staying safe. Riders learn to control their ATV and expand their skills through preparation and practice. The document emphasizes that accidents can be prevented through proper planning, responsible behavior, and safety gear like helmets. It stresses the importance of taking a safety course before operating an ATV.

1. ATV SafetyATV Safety
Transportation SHSMTransportation SHSM

2. Welcome to the ATV Safety CourseWelcome to the ATV Safety Course
No matter what your ATV riding experience is, from beginner to seasonedNo matter what your ATV riding experience is, from beginner to seasoned
rider, safety always plays an important role in riding. In fact, the mostrider, 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. ThisThe following information has been taken from the ATV Safety Institute. This
course is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of riding, and to helpcourse 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 yearsyou 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 youBy 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 leadYou’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.

3. Remember, ATV’s are NOT toys. They are designed for a single driver andRemember, 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 is
specifically designed for two passengers. When operating your ATV, youspecifically designed for two passengers. When operating your ATV, you
should ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody elseshould ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody else
Unfortunately serious injury or death can be the result of improper use ofUnfortunately 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.

4. Some people think that accidents only happen to other people. ThisSome 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 ofbecome 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 accidentsThe fact is, accidents can happen to anyone at anytime. But most accidents
can be prevented with proper planning and responsible behaviour. Beforecan be prevented with proper planning and responsible behaviour. Before
operating an ATV for the first time, you should take a training course onoperating 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.

5. How much do you think about safety? TheHow much do you think about safety? The
decisions you make everydaydecisions you make everyday
play a big part in your personal safety.play a big part in your personal safety.

6. Risk Assessment SurveyRisk Assessment Survey
How often DO you or WILL you wear the following items when ridingHow 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 yourComplete the following survey on paper by keeping track of your
number of “Never,” “Sometimes,” and “Always” answers in order to assessnumber of “Never,” “Sometimes,” and “Always” answers in order to assess
your level of risk.your level of risk.
NeverNever SometimesSometimes AlwaysAlways
HelmetHelmet   
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   

7. Risk Assessment Survey Cont’dRisk Assessment Survey Cont’d
How often to you plan on doing the following before or while ridingHow 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 ATVAllow a child to ride your adult-sized ATV   
Consume alcohol or other drugsConsume alcohol or other drugs   
Have a first aid kitHave a first aid kit   
Have a tool kitHave a tool kit   
Inspect your ATV prior to ridingInspect your ATV prior to riding   
Carry a passenger on a single rider ATVCarry a passenger on a single rider ATV   
Ride as a passenger on a single rider ATVRide as a passenger on a single rider ATV   
Ride on paved roadsRide on paved roads
  
Ride on public highwaysRide on public highways   

8. Risk AwarenessRisk Awareness
 Do you wear the proper protective ATV ridingDo you wear the proper protective ATV riding
gear?gear?
– Inadequate riding gear will increase your chancesInadequate riding gear will increase your chances
of severe personal injury in the event of anof severe personal injury in the event of an
accidentaccident
 Do you maintain your machine in good operatingDo you maintain your machine in good operating
condition?condition?
– If your machine is not in good working order, youIf your machine is not in good working order, you
risk being stranded. Remember, you can usuallyrisk being stranded. Remember, you can usually
ride further in one hour than you can walk in aride further in one hour than you can walk in a
day. Mechanical problems can also lead today. Mechanical problems can also lead to
accidents.accidents.

9.  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 excessiveRiding in an unsafe manner such as excessive
speed and doing wheelies, jumps or other stuntsspeed 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 orparalyzed or being killed. You also risk injuring or
killing another person or damaging your machinekilling another person or damaging your machine
or other property.or other property.
 Do you use a risk management strategy whileDo you use a risk management strategy while
riding?riding?
– Not using a risk management system to makeNot using a risk management system to make
good decisions while riding greatly increase yourgood decisions while riding greatly increase your
chances of being in an accident.chances of being in an accident.

10. Being attentive of the environment around you and being a good decisionBeing attentive of the environment around you and being a good decision
maker helps you minimize and manage risk during your ride. Learning tomaker helps you minimize and manage risk during your ride. Learning to
organize your thought processes by using effective thinking strategies whileorganize 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. NoNo
other vehicle requires the same as an ATV.other vehicle requires the same as an ATV.

11. ATV Safety QuizATV Safety Quiz
Complete 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 condition
b) How fast will the ATV runb) How fast will the ATV run
c) Safetyc) Safety
d) 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 else.a) Ride by yourself so that you won’t unintentionally hurt somebody 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 operatorsd) 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.

12. 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

13. ATV Safety Quiz AnswersATV Safety Quiz Answers
1. – b1. – b (one person)(one person)
2. – c2. – c (safety)(safety)
3. – a3. – 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. – b4. – b (take a training course on how to ride your ATV(take a training course on how to ride your ATV
safely)safely)
5. – d5. – 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

14. Before You RideBefore You Ride
ATV’s are quite different fromATV’s are quite different from
other vehicles you may haveother vehicles you may have
operated including:operated including:
 BicyclesBicycles
 TricyclesTricycles
 MotorcyclesMotorcycles
 CarsCars
 Other off-highwayOther off-highway
vehiclesvehicles

15. ATV’s are rider active, and mostATV’s are rider active, and most
have a solid drive axle. Rider activehave a solid drive axle. Rider active
means there is more physicalmeans there is more physical
demand in riding and ATV thandemand in riding and ATV than
driving your car. The rider mustdriving your car. The rider must
adjusting their body position toadjusting their body position to
enhance the maneuverability of theenhance the maneuverability of the
ATV.ATV.
Independent drive axles makeIndependent drive axles make
your ATV a more capable off-roadyour ATV a more capable off-road
vehicle as it provides better tractionvehicle as it provides better traction
and distributes power to bothand distributes power to both
wheels.wheels.

16. Protective GearProtective Gear
The nature of ATV riding demands thatThe 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 wearKnowing what to wear and how to wear
it will make you feel more comfortableit will make you feel more comfortable
when you ride and reduce injury.when you ride and reduce injury.

17. HelmetsHelmets
For many outdoor sports a helmet is a pre-requisite to safetyFor 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 purchasing
a 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.

18. Eye ProtectionEye Protection
To ride safely, you must be able to seeTo ride safely, you must be able to see
clearly, which means you need eyeclearly, 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 theybugs 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 optimalSunglasses 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 youriding glasses, or a face shield will give you
the proper protection you need.the proper protection you need.
Goggles should be scratch free, secured toGoggles should be scratch free, secured to
your helmet and have proper ventilation toyour helmet and have proper ventilation to
prevent foggingprevent fogging

19. ClothingClothing
Wearing the proper protection clothing every time you ride is key to ensuring possibleWearing 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 longWhen riding, you should wear a long-sleeved shirt and long
pants to protect your arms, body and legs from cuts andpants to protect your arms, body and legs from cuts and
scratches.scratches.
To help prevent your hands from getting sore, tired, or coldTo help prevent your hands from getting sore, tired, or cold
and to protect your hands in the event of an accident, you willand 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 withTo protect your feet, strong pair of over–the-ankle boots with
low heels are recommended to help prevent your feet fromlow heels are recommended to help prevent your feet from
slipping off the footrests and to protect your feet and anklesslipping off the footrests and to protect your feet and ankles
from surface debris and obstacles.from surface debris and obstacles.

20. ATV FamiliarityATV Familiarity
As with any piece of technology, it is important to understand the parts of theAs 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 basicmachine. 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 startingshould always be engaged when starting
the machine, when transporting the machinethe 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 shouldthe 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.

21.  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 theyou’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 fullREMEMBER…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.

22. Pre-Ride InspectionPre-Ride Inspection
To minimize your chance of breaking down when riding, you should alwaysTo minimize your chance of breaking down when riding, you should always
perform a pre-ride inspection. An easy way to remember this step-by-stepperform 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 tireowners 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 isleaks, 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).

23. Tool KitTool Kit
SSince the auto club isn’t minutes awayince the auto club isn’t minutes away
if you break down on the trail, youif you break down on the trail, you
should prepare and carry a tool kitshould 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

24. The RideThe Ride
When mounting the ATV, what doWhen mounting the ATV, what do
you absolutely need to do first?you absolutely need to do first?
a) Grab the handlebar with one handa) Grab the handlebar with one hand
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 beforeAlways set the parking brake before
mounting the ATV so it doesn’t start rollingmounting the ATV so it doesn’t start rolling
as you get on.as you get on.

25.  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

26. 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 toesBoth feet on the footrests with toes
facing towards the front of the bikefacing towards the front of the bike

27. Starting The ATVStarting The ATV
Different ATV’s may have different starting procedures, but starting the engine is usuallyDifferent 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 startMake 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 acronymAs a general guideline, the acronym BONE-CBONE-C will help you remember the basic ATV startingwill 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)

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

29. Braking TipsBraking Tips
 Avoid having to brake whileAvoid having to brake while
cornering. If you go into thecornering. If you go into the
corner too fast, you are likely tocorner 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 avoidapply both brakes lightly to avoid
locking the wheels.locking the wheels.
 Keep your feet on the footrests atKeep your feet on the footrests at
ALL times.ALL times.

30. ParkingParking
 When parking the ATV, always try toWhen parking the ATV, always try to
park on flat ground.park on flat ground.
 Shift the transmission into neutral orShift the transmission into neutral or
park.park.
 Stop the engine using the engine stopStop 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 toSet 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.

31. 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 theFor 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. Thiscentrifugal 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 youis 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 youapproach 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 theThe 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 theturn 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 onHandlebars, 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 orwhere 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 yourturn 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 theRiding 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 andpath. 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.

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

33. Riding Up HillsRiding Up Hills
Climbing hills improperly could cause you to lose control or cause the ATV toClimbing 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 WeightWeight
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

34. The key to climbing hills is to keep yourThe key to climbing hills is to keep your
weight forward at all times. Move up onweight forward at all times. Move up on
the seat and lean forward OR you canthe seat and lean forward OR you can
stand and position your torso over thestand and position your torso over the
front wheels. This will keep your frontfront wheels. This will keep your front
wheels from lifting which could otherwisewheels from lifting which could otherwise
cause your ATV to flip backwards. Youcause your ATV to flip backwards. You
should also shift into a lower gear andshould also shift into a lower gear and
speed up before climbing the hill so youspeed up before climbing the hill so you
can maintain momentum.can maintain momentum.
When climbing hills remember that someWhen climbing hills remember that some
hills are too steep for your abilities andhills 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.

35. Riding Down HillsRiding Down Hills
Going downhill, much like going uphill, could cause serious risk to your safetyGoing 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

36. When riding down hills, choose a path that is as straight as possible, with noWhen 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 rearobstacles. 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 andof 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
AwayAway UU IntoInto
FromFrom TT TheThe
HillHill RR HillHill
AA
LL
Higher GearHigher Gear
No ChangeNo Change No ChangeNo Change
DecreaseDecrease Lower GearLower Gear
ANSWER:ANSWER:
No change inNo change in
speedspeed
Weight shiftWeight shift
into the hillinto the hill
No change inNo change in
geargear

37. TraversingTraversing
When traversing a slope it is important toWhen traversing a slope it is important to
keep both feet on the footrests. Do notkeep 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 oflean your body towards the uphill side of
the slope to keep your ATV’s wheels inthe slope to keep your ATV’s wheels in
contact with the slope. If the ATV beginscontact with the slope. If the ATV begins
to tip, turn the front wheels downhill if theto tip, turn the front wheels downhill if the
terrain allows. If the terrain does notterrain allows. If the terrain does not
allow, dismount the ATV on the uphill sideallow, dismount the ATV on the uphill side
of the slope. Also, avoid making anyof the slope. Also, avoid making any
sudden throttle changes. Keep in mind, ifsudden throttle changes. Keep in mind, if
you’re riding on a soft terrain, you mightyou’re riding on a soft terrain, you might
need to turn your front wheels gently intoneed to turn your front wheels gently into
the hill to keep your ATV on a straight linethe hill to keep your ATV on a straight line
across the slope.across the slope.

38. ObstaclesObstacles
Expert riders avoid obstacles whenever possible. However, you can crossExpert riders avoid obstacles whenever possible. However, you can cross
smaller obstacles with your ATV such as fallen branches, rocks, mounds ofsmaller 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 canStand 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 90oo
as possible. Thisas 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 losingAdjust your approach speed prior to the obstacle without losing
momentum.momentum.
 You might need to apply a small amount of throttle as the front wheelsYou 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 goneMake sure you release the throttle as soon as the front wheels have gone
over the obstacle.over the obstacle.

39. 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 ridingOne 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 pavedon 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. Ifroads. 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 theBefore 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 nowhere there are no
obstructions and your visibility is good.obstructions and your visibility is good.

40. Hazard ReactionHazard Reaction
It 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 onslippery, 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 makingthe 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 ATVquick 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 aKeep 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 andIf 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 animalIn 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 thedarts 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 afterobstacle. 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.

41. Riding StrategyRiding Strategy
A good riding strategy will prevent you fromA 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 aheadScanning the terrain several seconds ahead
of your intended path.of your intended path.
 NEVER riding faster than your visibilityNEVER riding faster than your visibility
allows.allows.
 Give yourself time to smoothly RESPOND toGive yourself time to smoothly RESPOND to
hazards instead of reacting to them at thehazards instead of reacting to them at the
last second.last second.

42. 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 lowerStopping 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 feet onYou should always keep your feet on
the footrests when making anthe footrests when making an
emergency maneuver.emergency maneuver.
TRUETRUE FALSEFALSE

43. Answers:Answers:
1.1. FalseFalse – stopping or– stopping or
swerving is always saferswerving 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 whenOnly afterwards when
your ATV is traveling in ayour ATV is traveling in a
straight line.straight line.
3.3. TrueTrue – always keep feet– always keep feet
on footrests to avoidon footrests to avoid
potential injury.potential injury.

44. ConclusionConclusion
There 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 riskYou’ve learned that part of the risk
associated with ATV riding can beassociated with ATV riding can be
managed if you wear protective gear andmanaged if you wear protective gear and
constantly survey your surroundings.constantly survey your surroundings.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to make smartUltimately, it’s up to you to make smart
choices. Don’t let peer pressure get tochoices. Don’t let peer pressure get to
you when someone says “hey...lets goyou when someone says “hey...lets go
jump over those mounds of dirt.” Trustjump over those mounds of dirt.” Trust
me, it’s a lot more fun to enjoy the ATVme, it’s a lot more fun to enjoy the ATV
experience than break your neck by beingexperience than break your neck by being
careless.careless.
I hope you enjoyed your ATV safety courseI hope you enjoyed your ATV safety course
and learned how to properly prepare for andand learned how to properly prepare for and
drive an ATV.drive an ATV.
Now complete the following TEST toNow complete the following TEST to
challenge your ATV knowledge.challenge your ATV knowledge.

45. CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE DONE!CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE DONE!
You may now move on to the test!You may now move on to the test!