SCORE INTERNATIONAL

SCORE Journal Issue 9 - 2016

SCORE Journal - The Official Publication of SCORE Off-Road Racing

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WORLD OF SCORE SUPPORT TEAM, TRAVEL, AND PIT SAFETY B ill Thompson of MAG 7 Pit Support, presented several safety tips during the SCORE Safety Workshop presented by Stand 21. Thompson pointed out that the key to safety during pit stops and in the pit areas, comes from thinking about everything that could possibly go wrong before it happens. Aside from pre-planning for any danger in the pit area, Thompson began by stating some obvious tips that can dramatically improve the safety of each team during a racing event. One of the first is to avoid nighttime travel. Thompsons says that traveling during the daytime allows you to see roadside hazards and allows you to easily avoid them. "If you have to travel at night, slow the speeds down considerably," said Thompson. "Give yourself some lead time." Because many teams do lots of driving in and around Baja, Thompson also recommends to caravan with team members. This makes for a better travel experience, as well as keeping people engaged by chatting on the radio. When it comes time for the race and vehicles come into a pit stop, Thompson says that pitting is hours of boredom followed by minutes of panic. But one of the most important things to remember is that drivers are often very focused and may not see the pit area your team has set aside, even with people and flags waving. "I can't recall how any times I've seen racers go right past me, even though there are five guys with orange shirts waving them in." Thompson says it's important to have clear signage in and out of the pits. He also recommends to keep dangerous materials such as fuel and other flammables in a separate area. It's also important to dress your team in appropriate safety clothes including fire-suits, helmets, gloves, etc.. Although the open area of Baja allows for anyone to walk into your pit area, he urges team members to keep civilians clear of the actual pit area to avoid injury. Furthemore, it's also just as important to keep an eye on your tools and equipment, in order that they don't disappear. For Thompson, safety is not a bad word. He stresses that at the end of the day, most teams want their loved ones to return home safe, tired and happy. "In order to do that, we have to think ahead, prepare your guys, communicate with them, and don't over-task them," said Thompson. "Don't expect too much so that they don't stretch out too far." SJ 058 SCORE JOURNAL

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