The Farmers Mart Oct-Nov 2018 - Issue 59 | Page 57

ATV FEATURE 57
• OCT/NOV 2018
SIMPLE SAFETY FOR ATV USERS
WHEN you think of a farmer’s
vehicles, the first ones that come
to mind are tractors and all-ter-
rain vehicles (ATV). These are the
cornerstone of any farm however,
what an ATV offers compared
to other vehicles is increased
versatility in terms of towing and
hauling capacity and the capabili-
ty to handle multiple terrains with
ease, from steep inclines to boggy
field. These benefits have led to
ATVs becoming the workhorse
vehicles that are relied upon on a
day to day basis.
With that in mind, always remem-
ber that the farm is a potentially
dangerous work environment, so it
is important that when using an ATV,
safe riding is at the forefront of the
user’s mind when out in the field.
Here are some top
tips when it comes
to rider safety:
• Make sure that the loads
carried on the racks are
secure and evenly balanced
and do not exceed the
capacity of the ATV (check
the manufacturers’ recom-
mendations).
• Always be aware of your
surroundings and keep your
eyes peeled for any pedestri-
ans, livestock, obstructions or
other vehicles.
• Inspect the ATV before use
to ensure that it is in good
working order.
• Avoid sudden increases in
speed as this is one of the
common causes for an over-
turned vehicle.
• Always wear the correct per-
sonal protective equipment
(PPE) such as a helmet, boots,
long sleeve shirt and trousers
when out riding.
• When riding across a slope,
keep your weight forward.
When going downhill, slide
your weight backwards, se-
lect a low gear and use engine
braking, which leads to the
reduction in the need to use
the brakes.
• When working a new area,
make sure you walk the route
before riding through it. This
will give you a better perspec-
tive of the dangers or obsta-
cles that you could come
across.
• You cannot predict the British
weather as one minute it
could be bright sunshine and
the next it could be pouring
with rain, so be aware of
changes in ground conditions
as these could affect the
loads you are carrying or the
attachments you are pulling.
• Always read the owner’s
manual.
BRP (Bombardier Recreational
Products) designs, manufactures
and distributes motorised profes-
sional, recreational and power-
sport vehicles. Its Can-Am brand
provides utility users with innova-
tive, economical, comfortable and
versatile ATVs and SSVs.
Robert D Webster Ltd
We have a selection of excellent
ATVs available from one of our
major franchises
SPECIAL OFFER ON EX-SHOW &
EX-DEMONSTRATORS (limited numbers)
For more information please call:
Ranger XP 900 ½ Cab
ATV Sportsman 570 EPS
Ranger Diesel Roof & Rear Panel
Ranger 150 Youth (Coming Soon!)
www.robertdwebster.co.uk
HOWDEN
Chris Smith 07384 814141
Christian Townend 07376 136119
KILHAM
Jim Richardson 07376 496093
Sam Illingworth 07908 504701
OWSTWICK
Mike Cowell (M.D) 07703 466122
or come in and see us!
Boothferry Road, Howden,
Goole, East Yorkshire,
DN14 7DZ