Opioid deaths are taking a toll on American citizens. The problem is so bad, it’s been labeled an epidemic. Here are a few grim statistics, from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Approximately 69,000 opioid overdose deaths in 2020. 82% caused by ingesting synthetic opioids. More than 107,000… Continue reading
Every four-wheeler at some point needs to use a winch. The type of rope used is vitally important. I suggest synthetic rope, even though it’s more expensive than steel and is susceptible to abrasions. It’s far stronger: A 3/8” synthetic rope of Amsteel-Blue has an average breaking strength of 19,600… Continue reading
One of the fundamental tenants of four-wheeling is to always travel with at least one other vehicle. Meaning, of course, never go four-wheeling alone. Bad things can happen, even during nice weather in a seemingly benign area. But sometimes it’s necessary for a vehicle to leave the group. Implementing the… Continue reading
Summer has arrived. Among the myriad outdoors activities that come to mind is four-wheeling. Many four-wheelers go off-road during the winter months, of course, but summer is a particularly popular time. With weather conditions generally calm, it’s natural to assume that the trails and back roads are open and accessible…. Continue reading
Every four-wheeling excursion involves some preparation. Even individual components of the trip can require careful planning to ensure a smooth drive. This is especially true when negotiating hills. Whether climbing or descending, knowing how to handle certain situations can mean the difference between continuing on and getting stuck. Before tackling… Continue reading
Hazards are an accepted part of four-wheeling. Driving off-road, in remote parts of the country (or the world), oftentimes on uneven or (treacherous terrain) is naturally risky. But it’s not just mechanical issues we face. Toxins occasionally present themselves, so it’s important to be aware of the situations that may… Continue reading
Anyone old enough to remember the Apollo space program may recall hearing the term redundancy. Back then, NASA was referring to extra electronics or other systems in the space capsule and lunar module. Today’s commercial aircraft also employ a certain amount of redundancy. In either case, the principle is the… Continue reading
A recent trip on the Rubicon trail showed the value of radio communication. We experienced multiple incidents from a fire chasing us to an overturned Jeep with injuries and a request for spare parts. Forest fires continue to burn in dozens of locations in the western U.S. Yet four-wheelers still… Continue reading
Each day brings more troubling news about the devastating wildfires raging in the western U.S. The Dixie Fire, in northern California, has burned more than 500,000 acres, including most of the town of Greenville. As I write this, on Aug. 12, the fire is less than one-third contained. In Montana… Continue reading
Four-wheeling is truly a family affair. Participants are highly encouraged to bring spouses, children, grandchildren, even grandparents along for the ride. And while driving off-road requires certain skills, there are no age limits. As long as the person can competently maneuver a vehicle over the chosen course, he or she… Continue reading
Back in June I discussed numerous safety issues related to four-wheeling. I wanted to offer a reminder, because many four-wheelers were getting back on the trails after being away for an extended period. (See Safety Off-Road Is No Accident.) Following up on that theme, I thought this is a good… Continue reading
After nearly three months of living in near seclusion, many four-wheelers are anxious to get back on the trails. But this gap in 4WD activity may have caused more than just automobile parts to go rusty. It’s possible that various safety skills need to be jump started to bring the… Continue reading
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