Three Tips for Getting Safely Through an Off-Road Recovery
Posted on: 16 February 2022
Everyone eventually gets stuck while wheeling. No matter how well you've built your rig or how much gear you bring, you'll find yourself in over your head sooner or later. These risks don't make off-roading any less fun, but it's essential to prepare for the worst and know how to get yourself out of a sticky situation.
More importantly, you need to know how to stay safe when you find yourself bogged down in the mud, high-centered on a rock, or otherwise disabled. These three tips will help you make your recovery just one more part of the adventure instead of a potentially dangerous situation.
1. Carry Basic Recovery Gear
Essential recovery equipment can help you get out of a surprisingly large number of jams. At a minimum, you should never hit the trail without a shovel and some recovery traction boards. These two straightforward pieces of gear can help you safely free yourself from numerous low-traction situations, including getting stuck in snow, sand, and mud.
Attempting to regain traction or dig your way out is safer than using a snatch strap or winch, especially if you're inexperienced. Although these more advanced techniques can help you get out of much more challenging situations, they shouldn't be your first choice as a beginner. By keeping these basic tools in your vehicle, you'll have safe and effective options for many self-recovery situations.
2. Wheel With an Experienced Friend
It's always safest to get out on the trails with at least one other person. Whether you're going with a buddy who's bringing their own vehicle or taking them along in your ride, you'll have a safer and more enjoyable time if you're not wheeling alone. Off-roading with an experienced friend is also an excellent way to pick up the skills you need to winches, snatch straps, and snatch blocks more effectively.
Taking two vehicles out onto the trail also offers you more options for recovery. If something goes wrong, your friend can use their vehicle's winch to help free you from a sticky situation. In a worst-case scenario, you'll have someone else with you who can call for help.
3. Know When to Call Professionals
You won't be able to get yourself free from every situation. If you've expended your self-recovery options, don't have a friend on-hand to help, or just can't yourself free, the safest option is typically to call in a recovery professional. An off-road recovery specialist can help you safely free your vehicle and may also be able to help you get moving again without risking damage to your truck.
While the independence that comes from hitting the trails is part of the appeal, you should never be afraid to call in help when you find yourself in over your head. Calling an off-road recovery service is an effective way to ensure your day on the trails remains safe and enjoyable.
Share