2017 Best In The Desert Safety Rules Don’t Be Caught Off Guard!
As the 2017 Best In The Desert (BITD) Bluewater Parker 425 presented by Impact approaches, new rules regarding safety are now mandatory. These rules were introduced prior to 2016, when it was made known that they were recommended for one year and required for 2017. While none of the rule updates are major changes, there is no need for surprises when you show up to tech at your first race of the season. For this reason Impact wants to ensure that all racers are familiar with the 2017 safety rules.
Helmets:
Helmets must be approved by one of the following with the appropriate approval decal attached; Snell SA2005 / SA2010 or SAH2010 / SA2015. The interior and exterior areas of the helmet must be free of defects (i.e., the padding must be in good condition and the exterior of the helmet must not be damaged). Beginning with the 2017 Best in the Desert Racing Season, SA2005 rated helmets will no longer be permitted.
Undergarments:
The use of petroleum based and other synthetic blends of undergarments such as the athletic or compression style close-fit garments are not permitted (commonly used for the cooling, moisture wicking, and quick drying features). Synthetic fibers such as nylon, elastane, and polyester melt when ignited and for this reason they will not be permitted. Best in the Desert strongly recommends the use of a fire retardant long sleeve tops, and long bottom undergarments as well as fire retardant socks rated to the SFI 3.3 specification.
BITD strongly recommends the use of either a fire retardant balaclava rated to the SFI 3.3 specification or a helmet skirt rated to the SFI 3.3/5 specification.
Suits:
One-piece firesuits are mandatory. Two-piece suits are not permitted. Suits must not have any holes, rips, or tears or be worn thin and must be free from any petroleum-based contaminants. All suits must be manufactured from fire resistant material and shall bear a minimum of an SFI 3.2A/5 or higher manufacturer’s certification label. Fire retardant gloves and footwear rated to the SFI 3.3 standard are very highly recommended. Best In The Desert Racing Association also highly recommends that each fire suit be labeled on the upper right chest with the entrant’s full name, blood type, allergies or other important medical information.

