Things You'll Need:
- Jeep or other properly equipped off road vehicle
- Recovery gear
- Fire Extinguisher
- Spare parts
- Tools
- A clear head
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Step 1
Always be aware of the surroundings. Off Road travel often involves traveling up or down steep slopes. Off road vehicles are heavy enough to inflict fatal injuries should you be trapped under on or between the vehicle and a tree or rock. Never stand below a vehicle that is attempting a maneuver on a steep slope.
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Step 2
Often moving a stuck Jeep involves the use of a winch. Steel winch cables can store fatal amounts of potential energy when stretched. Never stand beside a vehicle being winched unless you must be there. Always cover the winch line with a blanket or jacket to dampen the line in case it breaks. Use synthetic winch line if possible to make winching even safer.
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Step 3
Be prepared for weather changesBe prepared for weather changes. Often off roading is done in remote areas and in mountains. Weather can be warm and sunny in camp and turn cold and rainy on the mountain. Always carry extra clothes and rain gear to be prepared for sever weather changes.
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Step 4
Fire extinguisher mounted in an easily accessible spotAlways carry a fire extinguisher and know how to use it. Hot exhaust can ignite dry leaves in the woods. Also if a vehicle flops or overturns flammable liquids may leak onto hot engine parts and start a fire. Know how to use natural fire extinguishing agents like sand and puddle water in the event a fire extinguisher is not available or not enough.
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Step 5
Avoid interaction with wild life. The woods are natural homes to snakes, spiders, bears, wild boar and many other animals. remember that you are invading their territory and they may feel the need to fight to defend it. Give them plenty of space to avoid you.
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Step 6
When ever possible travel in groups. In extreme off road conditions, the likelihood of breaking a part and causing a vehicle to be inoperable is very high. carrying spare parts and having assistance is vital to survival. Also in the even more likely event of a vehicle flopping over or getting stuck, having another vehicle along to pull the stuck vehicle to safety is very important.
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Step 7
Carry good recovery equipment. A good selection of straps, ropes, cables, come along and jacks should be with each group. Each recovery operation is unique and requires different rigging to facilitate a recovery. Be prepared with a variety of gear.
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Step 8
Always keep a clear head when off roading. Let adrenaline be your only mind altering drug. Save the alcohol for camp after a fun day of adventure.
Avoid letting your ego interfere with good judgment as well. It is OK to take the bypass if your truck does not have the capability of running an obstacle. Don't ruin a fun day by pushing too hard.
