htm06672836, Training Resources for Safe Operation of Specialized Equipment, Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles

Training Resources for Safe Operation of Specialized Equipment

Specialized Equipment Resources (continued)

Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles

Graphic image of a Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Health and Safety Code Handbook Reference

13.11 (1-3), Four-wheel-drive vehicles are designed to provide extra power and traction for traveling at a slow speed over rough or unusual terrain. When operating four-wheel-drive vehicles:

Be familiar with the vehicle before using it for assigned field work or other activities.
Know your limitations and that of the vehicle for all driving conditions.
Do not drive faster than is safe, given the terrain and road conditions.

Video/DVD Resources

Title: The World of Four-Wheeling
- Format: Video
- Length: 53 minutes
- Date: 1992
- Price: $14.95, plus shipping and handling
- Availability: Preview Web site: http://www.theautochannel.com/media/; http://www.osmre.gov/safety/safetyvideos.htm
- Description: This video has been used in a variety of training programs. It provides information and driving tips for four-wheel-drive operation both on the highway and off road. Topics covered: driving on wet and slippery surfaces, proper handing over rocks, climbing hills, crossing water, and driving through mud or snow.

Electronic Documents

Title: Tread Lightly! Guide to Responsible Four Wheeling
- Format: Adobe Acrobat file (.pdf)
- Length: 32 pages
- Price: Download for free
- Date: 2004
- Availability: http://www.treadlightly.org
- Description: This guide provides a detailed overview of the fundamentals of negotiating and responding to demanding off-road terrain, preparing for a safe four-wheel-driving experience, and behaving appropriately toward other recreationists and landowners. A checklist for the vehicle and safety equipment is included. Tread Lightly!, originally launched in 1985 by the Forest Service and adopted by the U.S. Department of Interior Bureau of Land Management, was designed to help protect public and private lands while allowing responsible recreational use. In 1990, the program was transferred to a nonprofit organization with the same name.