By Brian Pawlak

Are you new to four wheeling? All of us were at one time. Let's go over some of the basics that new members need to learn, and we all should know. A quick look at our safety checklist will show the necessary items to have when going off road. ACB radio allows you to get advice from others while you are driving on an obstacle, and allows you to join in on the camaraderie of the club too. If you don't have a CB you'll get along for the first few trips, but it is a requirement for California Four Wheel Drive Club Association events and to join most all 4-wheel drive clubs including ours. Before joining a club, you may not have a fire extinguisher in your vehicle yet. They can be purchased for less than $10 and installed easily. The following items should be carried even on your first trips. Most of the things listed here are useful even while driving around town, or on a vacation out of town. First aid kits are a must for those inevitable mishaps that occur. A flash- light may be necessary if you have a breakdown at night or just need to find where your keys fell between the seats. All vehicles come with a jack capable of changing the tire. Be sure that it still can after you add that suspension lift and larger tires. Speaking of tires your spare needs to be within 3" of the diameter of the tires on your vehicle. If you have a space saver tire get a standard tire for better durability in off road use. Safety belts are not only a common sense club requirement, but it's the law. You need to carry a tow strap. First timers can borrow one for their first few trips, but the strap will do no good if you don't have tow hooks or other adequate attachment points. Be sure your battery is tied down solid. It will protect the battery, your vehicle and you from injury. All vehicles used off road must have a roll bar or factory hard top for rollover protection. Make sure that your emergency brake is working, adjust it if it's not. One of the simplest precautions is to carry drinking water for all occupants. Whether you are out for the first time or a "seasoned" off road participant, be sure to carry the above essentials.

Be Safe!