Driving is one of the most hazardous things we do because we literally perform the task hundred of times in the course of our daily lives that we tend to take it for granted. Based on recent trends, vehicle accidents are the source of more deaths and serious injuries to wildland firefighters than any other single cause.

Inattentiveness is a major contributing factor in motor vehile accidents within the wildland firefighting community. We must develop techniques that allow us to refocus our attention on our driving.

• Drive only when you are well rested and alert and avoid driving during the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Take a 10-15 minute break after every 2 hours.
• Maintain situational awareness; be aware of what is happening in front, behind, and both sides of your vehicle.
• Avoid eating or drinking while driving.
• Do not be in a hurry; be patient.
• Never drive when taking medications that make you drowsy.

Safe driving starts with a safe vehicle. Before operating any vehicle, do a walk-around to look for potential problems. Make sure lights and blinkers work, and adjust your seat and mirrors. If it is the first time you have driven the vehicle, make yourself aware of where everything is.