How to use the winch safely?

Off-road driving is a real man's adventure. In the most difficult wilderness, a winch brings invaluable help. However, you need to remember a few rules that will allow us to use this device safely and efficiently.

Pulling the roadster out of deep mud or other oppression, belaying on steep traverses, climbs or descents - without winches hard to imagine real off-road. But a multi-ton SUV hanging on a thin rope is a potential danger. Therefore, in order to avoid any risk, it is necessary to follow all safety rules.

The main action before each field trip is to check the equipment. Torn, frayed or frayed rope should be replaced. The same is true for other items. Worn or torn lashing straps, bent shackles, hooks and pulleys should also be disposed of in the trash. Home repair is also not worth playing. The consequences of failure of any of these elements can be dire, so why take the risk?

The winch itself also requires regular inspection and maintenance. This not only increases its durability and reliability, but also affects its safety. Particular attention should be paid to the winch brake - any signs of wear are a signal to replace this part.

Once we are sure that the equipment will not let us down, we must make sure that we do not harm ourselves. There are a few rules to follow when using a winch in the field. Most importantly, keep an appropriate distance from equipment in operation. We control the winch from a place removed by at least 1,5 lengths of the rope. We also need to make sure that no one else is in the area. Winch manufacturer Dragon Winch recommends opening the hood, which then covers the windshield and interior of the car.

Wear protective gloves when operating the winch to protect your hands from cuts. You should also avoid loose clothing (scarves, wide sleeves, etc.) and jewelry that can get caught somewhere or dragged into the winch drum. When winding the rope, do not hold it with your hands and do not grab the hook!

Always use nylon straps when attaching to trees. They not only protect the tree from damage, but also allow you to better secure the rope. By wrapping the rope and securing the hook on yourself, you will damage it very quickly. Before starting the winch, check the correct fastening of all elements - each bracket, block or hook.

A broken cable or one of the anchors is the biggest hazard when using a winch. To reduce the risk, you can use a little trick - hang a blanket, jacket or heavy car mat in the middle of the rope. If the rope breaks, its weight will direct most of its energy to the ground.

The operation of the winch itself also requires some attention. We do not start winding with a fully deployed rope - several turns should remain on the drum. If the traction of our winch is not enough, we can easily increase it with pulleys. Overloading the winch can damage it.

Applying all these rules can seem complicated, especially in difficult situations on the ground. Therefore, after buying a new winch, you should learn how to use it in easier conditions.