ATV LOADING AND UNLOADING TIPS
A large percentage of work related or recreational ATV accidents and injuries happen while loading or unloading. There are so many variables to consider that even an experienced ATV rider is at risk while loading and unloading. By following the techniques below accidents and injuries can be prevented.

THE SAFEST WAY TO UNLOAD YOUR ATV
If you loaded your ATV forward that means you will unload it in reverse. Driving an ATV backwards down a hill is not recommended and it is much more dangerous when backing down a temporary unsecure ramp. A slight turn of the handle or slip of a wheel can cause your ATV to fall, tip or roll sideways. If you are on the ATV you can be injured or killed. Unload the ATV safely as follows:

• Park your vehicle on level ground with no obstacles directly behind it.
• Put the ATV in gear.
• Stand at the front of the ATV.
• Push the ATV backward in line with the ramps (ramps should be long enough to minimize the grade/slope and secure enough to prevent them from moving) .
• As the rear tires start down the ramp let go of the ATV and let it roll backwards (don't try and slow or control the ATV as this can cause injury)
• In a low gear the ATV will roll down slowly thereby reducing chance of injury.

FAQ: What happens if the ATV slips off the ramp or tips? Nothing happens, to you! The ATV will be fine.

THE SAFEST WAY TO LOAD YOUR ATV
Steep inclines, unstable ramps, power and a short stopping areas are what make loading ATVs difficult and unsafe. There is no absolute safe way to drive your ATV into the back of a truck. The steps below will eliminate loading and unloading injuries both at work and recreationally.

• Park the ATV at the base of your ramps in line with your ramps.
• Unwind 10 - 15 feet of your winch cable and secure to a solid unit attached to the truck. Trucks can also have winches mounted on the floor of the truck box. If so the cable will be unwound and secured to the ATV.
• Sit on or stand to the side of the ATV, operate the winch winding the ATV slowly up the ramp.
• With the winch secured all four wheels will remain on the ramps and there is no risk of going to fast, accidentally hitting the throttle or not stopping in time.

If we all use the above tips while loading or unloading our ATV's we can prevent accidents and injuries.

Thank you,
Blake King
Canadian Safety Council                                                                                                                                                 Certified Instructor