Risk Management Magazine

Most of us remember hearing a series of bells or some other type of audible device signaling a fire drill while in grade school. I recall hoping the drill would lead to an unplanned recess and enjoyed getting a break from our classwork. At the time, I did not understand the importance of these drills in preparing me and my classmates on how to react to an emergency. Unknowingly, it created an environment that assisted our teachers and emergency responders in ensuring everyone made it out of the building quickly and safely.

Millions of motorists take to the road every day, but most don't realize the pivotal role that driver's training and thorough safety inspections play in averting catastrophic tire blowouts and safeguarding lives. Join me on a journey as I recount a harrowing incident on a scorching summer afternoon, where swift action and preparedness prevented a potentially fatal rollover.

It was a typical day in Tennessee — nice weather, beautiful scenery and plenty of fun things to do. I was in high school and, like many people throughout the country, raced all-terrain vehicles during my free time. I’d never taken an official safety course, but my father did a good job giving me instruction on proper riding techniques.