Think!

[MarkG]

As the new Safety / Riding Moderator, I would like to promote proactive thinking to encourage safety. Each of us is different, what is safe for one individual may be dangerous to another. Everyone should always be mindful of our personal limitations.

The British Government made a two minute video just for this theme. Nice of them to know that I was going to need this kind of example. :)

When going out for the next Nomad activity (fun, work, practice, fooling around, etc.), ask the following questions.

1. What is the reward, the accomplishment, or personal satisfaction?

We all want to have fun and enjoy ourselves. Each of us is an individualist and always seems to be looking for something different.

2. What are the risks?

Maybe the Nomad will get scratched or bent. Maybe we will get scratched or bent. Always have an escape route or abort the activity if things do not go as planned. If the risks are greater than the reward, the activity might not be a good idea.

3. Is the activity possible with your personal skill level?

Just because I watched the riders jumping 50 feet into the air and doing tricks at the motorcycle show does not mean I can do it. They did not start at expert level, there are countless hours of practice doing easier exercises.

4. Most important, what are the consequences if the activity goes wrong?

Tickets, increased insurance costs, possible loss of the driver's license might not be a good idea. It can have an adverse effect on the bank account to repair pipes, bars, and other mechanical damage to the Nomad. There is considerable pain when it involves a sprain or broken bones. Hospital time, especially in intensive care, is expensive. Worse if it goes terribly wrong, you will not be going home. How much can each of us afford to lose and still be happy riding?

Proactive thinking, especially about the consequences, can prevent major problems. These four simple questions will not prevent us from having spontaneous fun. Just taking a little extra time to “think” will ensure we have fun.

Each of us has different life skills and abilities depending on where we came from and how we were raised. Be honest with yourself, stay within your limitations, and “ride your own ride.”