ATVs and UTVs

  • Always wear a DOT compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
  • Never ride on paved roads except to cross. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
  • Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
  • Ensure all employees are trained on how to operate ATVs and/or UTVs before using them.
  • Read and follow all manufacturer instructions.
  • Require employees to wear seatbelts, when provided.
  • Inspect and maintain vehicle to ensure it is in working order.

Snowmobiles

  • Be a defensive driver. Always be alert for potential danger. Helmets and engine noise can impair your hearing. Snowfall, blowing snow, and night driving can reduce visibility.
  • Don’t over drive your headlights when driving in the dark. Ensure your speed is slow enough to see an object in time to react and avoid a collision.
  • Be alert and on the lookout for thin ice and open water, grooming equipment, other snowmobiles, unseen obstacles beneath the snow, unexpected corners and stops, road crossings, snowbanks and drifting snow, trees and branches, bridges and approaches, wildlife and domestic animals, and skiers.
  • Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. Wherever possible, avoid riding on frozen lakes and rivers because ice conditions are never guaranteed.
  • Snow blindness occurs when direct and reflecting sun glare is too bright for the eyes. Use good quality, UV-protected sunglasses, goggles, or a visor to protect the eyes.
  • Frostbite results from freezing temperatures and poor circulation. Cover up, layer well, and make sure socks fit loosely within your boots. Remember mittens with liners are warmer than gloves.
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines for machine maintenance.
  • Be careful when crossing roads of any kind. Come to a complete stop and make sure no traffic is approaching from any direction. Then, cross at a right angle to traffic.
  • Ensure riders have avalanche beacons, shovels, probe poles, and a portable radio to summon help.

Shuttle Vans

  • Shuttle vans should only be driven by experienced, licensed drivers.
  • Stay focused on the task of safe driving by being well-rested, never using a handheld phone while driving, and limiting conversation with other passengers.
  • Drivers should not drive more than eight hours a day.
  • Always obey posted speed limits and reduce your speed as needed based on road and weather conditions. Shuttle vans require additional braking time. Keep in mind that posted speed limits are intended to be safe for smaller passenger cars, not larger vehicles.
  • Inspect the tires and check tire pressure before each use. Tires should be properly inflated, and tread should not be worn down. Excessively worn or improperly inflated tires can lead to a loss of vehicle control.
  • Shuttles are longer and wider than cars and require more space to maneuver.
  • Maintain the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) recommended by the manufacturer for human and other cargo. The GVWR is different for every model, so always check the vehicle manual before loading.
  • Avoid panicked steering and hard braking. If an emergency occurs while on the road, focus on slowing down gently and pulling over in a safe manner.
  • The largest blind spot is directly behind the vehicle, so avoid backing up as much as possible.