1997 Chevrolet Suburban Owner's Manual - Page 195

Environmental Concerns Off-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfying recreation. However, it also raises environmental concerns. GM recognizes these concerns and urges every off-roader to follow these basic rules for protecting the environment: 0 Traveling to Remote Areas It makes sense toplan your trip, especially when going to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your route. You are much less likely to get bad surprises. Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn of any blocked or closed roads. It's also a good idea totravel with at least one other vehicle. If something happens to one of them, the other can help quickly. Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be handy if you get stuck. But you'll want to know how to use it properly. Always use established trails, roads and areasthat have beenspecially set aside forpublic off-road recreational driving; obey all posted regulations. Avoid any driving practice that could damagethe environment -- shrubs, flowers, trees, grasses -- or disturb wildlife (this includeswheel-spinning, breaking downtrees or unnecessary driving through streams or over soft ground). Always carry a litter bag ...make sure all refuse is removed from any campsite before leaving. 0 0 Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving It's a good idea topractice in an area that's safe and close to home before you go into the wilderness. Off-road driving doesrequire some new and different driving skills. Here's what we mean. Tune your senses todifferent kinds of signals. Your eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms, hands, feet and body, you'll need to respond to vibrations and vehicle bounce. 0 Take extreme carewith open fires (wherepermitted), camp stoves and lanterns. Never park your vehicle over dry grass or other combustible materials that could catch fire from the heat of the vehicle's exhaust system. 0