While going off road, especially in the southwestern part of the United States, people often wonder about snakes, rattlesnakes in particular. Several rattlesnake species inhabit the United States, with the Diamondback and Mojave Green rather prevalent in the southwest (and most of Mexico). They are similar in appearance, but the… Continue reading
Four wheeling is and should be a family affair. Getting away from the rat race and enjoying the great outdoors can be some of the best times you and your family experience. Kids of all ages love to get out into the woods and open terrain. Like any event, four… Continue reading
The devastating earthquakes and tsunamis that hit Japan have many people thinking about survival techniques. Especially here in California, where we’re constantly wondering when the Big One will hit. I’ve discussed various aspects of survival in other columns, including Your Gear Is Not Complete Without An Emergency Packet! and Get Layered… Continue reading
You arrive home after a long drive, turn off the GPS receiver, and say to yourself, “Boy, am I glad I have that!” How often have you used your GPS system whether in your vehicle or a handheld model“ while going for a drive or walk? Time was we relied… Continue reading
Winter has arrived in many parts of the country, and that means a hazardous situation awaits you nearly every time you get behind the wheel. You may know how to drive in snow, but do you know what to do if you were stuck in snow? Recently, drivers on I-90… Continue reading
Good communication can make or break a trip. It’s crucial that the message is understood as intended. The more individuals involved in a trip and the more often you change plans, the more opportunity for confusion. As trail leader, you should establish routine procedures to ensure your guests understand what… Continue reading
One of the last things you consider while preparing for a trip is an accident. After all, who wants to think about something bad? Unfortunately, accidents can happen any where and at any time. In my 40-plus years of four-wheeling, I’ve taken many courses, including those to become a Sworn… Continue reading
Outdoors folks know how challenging it can be to keep food and other perishables chilled properly. You’re constantly adding ice and putting up with soggy food that fell into the big puddle at the bottom of your cooler. After each camping weekend, you turn to your better half and yell,… Continue reading
If you plan to attend the Wine Country Safari event, you should learn to recognize Poison Oak. While exposure to Poison Oak is not life-threatening, it will make you extremely uncomfortable. Symptoms are often present for up to three weeks. Most of the time an over-the-counter remedy is all that… Continue reading
Like other four-wheelers, I keep a fire extinguisher in the vehicle. Don’t think about it much, as it sits there year-round, attached to the transmission hump. One day I had to take it in for a minor repair, and it dawned on me that we tend to take those things… Continue reading
Regular readers of this column know that I have stressed safety and preparedness several times. There’s good reason for that. When you’re off-road, especially several hours away from critical care, you have to be able to handle emergencies that may occur. Previously I’ve touched on first aid kits and other… Continue reading
The desert is an amazing place. Despite the harsh conditions, numerous plants and animals thrive there. Many plants, including cacti, bloom in the spring and summer, bringing tremendous color to the otherwise drab surroundings. Looks can be deceiving, however. Certain plants may be appealing to the eyes, but can ruin… Continue reading
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