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General
It is important that both you and your vehicle arrive at the event well prepared and in good condition. We also want you to leave the same way but with the addition of a huge ear to ear smile on your face at the end of the day.
By making sure that both you and the car are properly prepared, there won't be any surprises for you, or the rest of the class.
The BMW Car Club of British Columbia and Driving Unlimited want this to be a fun experience and a little preparation by you before hand will make it that much more pleasurable.
Car Preparation
Please note: Upgrading your car is NOT required for a driving school.
That said, your car should be in safe running order, and ready for a fun day, so...
One of the most important things is not to be distracted while trying to learn.
Remove ALL loose items from the interior of the car that can move around. Cassettes, CD's, bags, umbrellas, etc. should be taken out so they do not become flying missiles. Empty the door pockets, and make sure there are no loose items in the glove box and the back seat.
Remove all loose items from your trunk that are not secured. Again, this is to prevent them from becoming a potentially harmful object or a distraction.
Check tire condition and pressures and make sure all tires are properly inflated to the recommended level on the door jamb label for your car in fully loaded condition. If in doubt, you can probably safely inflate you tires to 40 psi in all tires. This will reduce the side flex in the tires. The ride will be firmer but you will have a more sensitive feel of the road through the steering wheel. Make sure that all your tires are in good shape including the spare. We have no way to help you inflate under inflated tires at the sessions. Arriving with more air in the tires to start means you can let air out and adjust once you are at the session.
It goes without saying that your brakes need to be functioning properly. If you have brake issues, you are not only unsafe for the road, but also unsafe for our courses. Pad wear warning lights and other brake warning lights should not be ignored.
For winter skills sessions and session on rainy days, it is wise to make sure your wipers work properly. It is also wise to make sure your windshield is clean and provides and unobstructed view for you.
Make sure that all fluids are at correct operating levels and that there are no parts or items in the suspension, braking and steering that require repair. Inspect to make sure the battery is secure. If in doubt have your mechanic check your car brakes and suspension parts for suitability. In most cases good stock running order will be just fine, especially for the Car Control Schools. Remember, the Motor Vehicle Act requires your car be in proper working order to drive on the roads. If you are in doubt about your cars condition, the club will can recommend a Dealer or repair shop that can help you with a safety inspection for your vehicle.
Arrive at the event with a full tank of fuel. The nearest gas / fueling stations are several km from the session locations.
Driver Preparation
As you know BC has wonderful quickly changing weather. Depending on the weather forecast, bring the appropriate clothing. Just as in camping hiking or sports, consider layering your clothing. If it's going to be wet bring extra socks and shoes and rain gear so you'll stay dry. You will enjoy the day much more if you're comfortable by having the right clothes. For dry events, head protection from the sun (including sunscreen and UV Block) is advised and sunglasses are a must, as is a clean windshield both in and out.
Road Skills events (at Mission) require that a helmet be used. The helmet should fit well and have a Snell 95 rating or better. A limited number of loaner helmets are usually available.
Be prepared to drink plenty of fluids during the day to prevent dehydration. We do not have drinking water at the sites, so plan on bringing your own. The adrenaline will be flowing at a good rate and you will be come thirsty. We recommend at least a litre bottle of water, and if you prefer tea or coffee as well.
Depending on the event venue, you should be prepared for lunch. In most cases, our schools include an on site catered lunch that includes some vegetarian alternatives. If you have special food needs, you may have to make your own arrangements. You WILL be hungry. If you are going need to leave the facilities for a meal, don't linger. By not holding up the others, everyone will have more runs and learn more.
Try to arrive promptly, at least 15 to 20 minutes before the designated start time. This will allow you time to sign the obligatory Liability Waiver, remove any loose articles from the car, walk the course and generally relax before the class begins.
After the event, drive carefully. You WILL be tired, and probably quite unaware of how much adrenaline has been pumping through you system during the day. Plan to go to bed early that night because your body will want some rest from the days events.
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