How to Prep Your ATV for Family Survival

Reliable transportation can be a life or death asset when catastrophe hits. It’s a concept that escapes most people, even if they think they are ready. The family car will not be enough if the roads are blocked, for example. Preparedness means getting organized, creating an emergency plan, stockpiling supplies and stable transportation. There is a lot of debate regarding survival vehicles. One that you may not have considered is the all-terrain transport or ATV.

Finding the Right ATV

One reason organizers overlook the ATV is size. When planning for a family, it just might not seem practical. The truth is a large ATV is a valuable tool to have because you don’t know what terrain you will face if forced to bug out.

The right ATV fits more than one or two people in a pinch. Models like the Polaris RZR or Ranger have space in the back that’s more than capable of carrying passengers. The Roketa ATV-11 is another option for transport.

Keeping Your ATV Action Ready

Proper maintenance means the ATV is ready to go when you need it. Little things can conk out the vehicle. For example, an air cleaner bogged with dirt allows debris into the engine. In some cases, simply removing the cleaner and washing it out then draining the tube is enough.

Changing the oil and filter following the recommendations of the manufacturer is critical, as well. While you are at it, stock up on oil and filters as part of your survival supplies. The same goes for coolant and brake fluid. Check the levels often and ensure you have backup parts in case you need a repair.

The spark arrestor is a safety device that prevents fires. Check the manual of your vehicle to see how often it needs cleaning — usually every 100 hours of operation. Take safety precautions when working on the spark arrestor. Wear goggles and always do the maintenance in an open area.

Tire Readiness

An ATV, by definition, uses low-pressure tires. That is one reason this vehicle is such an effective survival tool. Checking the pressure is still something you need to address. You want them to be in good shape at all times. Be sure the ATV tires you have on the unit are well suited for your travel region, as well as surrounding areas.

Ride the vehicle in different seasons to get a feel for how the tires operate in various climates. There is no way to know what temperature or ground challenges you might face in an emergency.

Gather Supplies Relevant to Your ATV Travel

ATVs have limited carrying capacity, especially with the family traveling with you. It might be ideal to get a trailer to go with the vehicle and load it up with survival supplies. Pack the trailer ahead of time with camping gear like a tent, cooking utensils, ground tarp, a first aid kit, fishing and hunting gear or other survival necessities. Freeze-dried foods are energy boosters and light enough to fit on an ATV trailer.

Getting the Family Ready

You already know space will be limited on the ATV. Make sure everyone in the family has a small pack with personal supplies like safety goggles or sunglasses, sunscreen and toiletries. This will leave the trailer for bigger items like survival gear and food rations.

The average American family doesn’t appreciate the risk of disaster they face these days. That means most will end as statistics instead of survivors. Armed with a strategy and tools like an ATV and fortified trailer, you and your family will be prepared.

By Zachary Hayes