2008 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI Touring Owners Manual - Page 16

SAFETY Rider Safety • Never operate an ATV without wearing an approved helmet that fits properly. Always wear eye protection (goggles or face shield), gloves, boots, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and long pants. A passenger's helmet should have a rigid chin guard. • Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating an ATV. • Never operate at excessive speeds. Travel at speeds appropriate for your skills, your passenger's skills, and operating conditions. • Never attempt jumps or other stunts. • Always inspect your ATV before each use to make sure it's in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and schedules outlined in your owner's manual. • Always travel slowly and use extra caution when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Be alert to changing terrain conditions. • Never operate on excessively rough, slippery, or loose terrain. • Always follow proper turning procedures as described in this manual. Practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds. Do not turn at excessive speeds. • Always have the ATV inspected by an authorized Polaris dealer if it's been involved in an accident. • Never operate on hills too steep for the ATV or for your abilities. Practice on smaller hills before attempting larger hills. • Never operate with the differential unlocked ( ) while operating on a hill or other irregular terrain. See pages 37 and 47. • Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills. Check the terrain carefully before ascending a hill. Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces. Shift your weight uphill. Never open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes. Never go over the top of a hill at high speed. Always move the 4X4 switch to ADC 4X4 before ascending or descending a hill. 16