GMC Canyon Owner's Manual page 258

Environmental Concerns
Off-road driving can provide wholesome and
satisfying recreation. However, it also raises
environmental concerns. We recognize these
concerns and urge every off-roader to follow
these basic rules for protecting the environment:
•
Always use established trails, roads, and
areas that have been specially set aside
for public off-road recreational driving; obey all
posted regulations.
•
Avoid any driving practice that could damage
the environment — shrubs, flowers, trees,
grasses — or disturb wildlife. This includes
wheel-spinning, breaking down trees, 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.
•
Take extreme care with open fires where
permitted, 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.
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Traveling to Remote Areas
It makes sense to plan 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 is also a good idea to travel 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 will
want to know how to use it properly.
Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving
It is a good idea to practice in an area that is
safe and close to home before you go into
the wilderness. Off-road driving does require some
new and different skills. Here is what we mean.
Tune your senses to different 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 will
need to respond to vibrations and vehicle bounce.