ATV Safety Planning and Preparation

By Keith Denoncourt

*Every trip* and *every adventure* must be very specifically planned for. *Plan for the worst*, and *respectfully enjoy* the outdoors to the fullest potential.

For Well Over 40 Years, ATVs Have Been Part of My Outdoor Life

For more than four decades, ATVs have been an active part of my outdoor lifestyle. I still remember using Allouette snowmobiles to haul out our winter moose and training on Honda trikes during my Initial Attack Forestry courses. Later, while teaching Outdoor Education, I used my ATV for campsite safety patrols.

These experiences became invaluable. In the early days of Search and Rescue, it was often the personal gear that team members had on hand—ready 24/7—that made our rescues and recoveries successful. Over the years, I’ve learned that Mother Nature’s wrath and equipment malfunctions are inevitable. The difference always comes down to preparation.

Searching for a New Machine

Today, I consider myself blessed. Life’s circumstances have led me to search for a new, reliable ATV—something that could carry another person, handle deep muskeg and heavy snow, protect my camera gear, and keep me warm and dry. As I’ve gotten older, comfort matters more than ever.

I knew the general type of machine I was looking for, but not the exact make or model. During my search, I received an unexpected call that brought back great memories—a former Outdoor Education student of mine, Bryan McEvoy, reached out. I hadn’t spoken to Bryan in over 20 years, and it was exciting to learn he is now the owner of Yellowhead Recreation in Spruce Grove, Alberta.

Knowing my history and expectations, Bryan invited me down to check out his selection. When I arrived, his team didn’t push any specific brand or model. Instead, they listened. I explained that breaking down or getting stuck no longer held the same thrill it once did, and that my adventures often take me into extreme cold, ice, snow, and the deep muskeg of the northern boreal forest. After looking at several machines, I decided on an 850 WorkCross with tracks—a choice perfectly suited to my needs.

More Than Just a Purchase

That decision was just the beginning. Bryan knew that Non-Typical Nation believes in more than just showing incredible adventures—we aim to showcase them responsibly, with professionalism, planning, and respect for the outdoors. Very soon, we’ll be sharing more content together that not only highlights thrilling adventures but also teaches the importance of preparation and safety.

Our goal is to inspire others to enjoy the outdoors fully, while showing the level of planning and precaution needed to make every trip safe and successful. We don’t share these lessons because we think we’re better than anyone—only because we’ve broken down, gotten stuck, and learned the hard way.

The truth is, it’s rarely about the brand of the machine. Most ATVs will fail with a dead battery, bad fuel, neglect, or misuse. Machines that are well-maintained and prepared for the conditions, however, can turn potential emergencies into successful recoveries. Planning ahead for “what if” situations is the single most important step toward safe adventures.