Racing is just around the corner and as cars are just about ready, take time to make them safe! Please dont just do the minimum the rules call for! Put a lil extra padding on the cage where you can make contact, not just when your sitting on all four but when the car might be on its side and roof! Round off corners on sheet metal, not just where you can reach but everywhere! Someone might be trying to get in your car from any direction to help you, make it safe for them also! Check your belts, if they are getting old or worn, replace them! Seat belts soaked at the car wash, baking out in the sun, or even in a hot shop can weaken to the point of replacing even after one season! Another thing the tracks and sanctions need to look at more is drivers fire suits! Ive seen way to many out of date, dirty, just plain worn out, torn, and unsafe fire suits being used! I know fire suits can cost alot of money but you can find great deals on 2 layer fire suits if you shop around the internet! Single layer fire suits should be outlawed period! However since they are legal and some people do use them at the very least get carbonX style underwear! M rated helmets, older helmets, and out dated helmets should also be replaced! Even if the helmet looks good but it has been used for a season check it make sure its in good condition! Sweat and baking in the trailer or shop all week can detiorate a helmet fast! Racing shoes and gloves should be a no-brainer but I see alot that are held together with duct tape...replace them! Its hard to hold your baby or brush your teeth if you lose your fingers to a fire! On-board fire system do not cost that much and can buy you time when you most need it! They dont weigh much and are easy to instal and maintain! Dont race without one, the one time you dont, might be the time you need it! Also use jack stands at the track and at the shop, its common sence!
Being safe and coming home from the track is more that just for the driver! Its for the drivers familes and the spectators that dont want to see something needless happen on the track! No one wants to lose a husband, brother, sister, hero, rival, or father to something that could have been prevented with a lil extra time in the shop!
If you cant afford to be safe, you cant afford to race...its as simple as that!
Hope everyone has a safe 2012 racing season! Good luck to all!
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Stole it from 'Slider'...