what precautions should be observed if a vehicle is to be raised with a hoist?
That the car/truck is lined up properly on the lift before raising. That the lift is rated for the vehicle. After its raised; be sure its lowered onto the safety locks before going under. Use safety glasses during inspection.
Get it on the hoist straight and do not exceed the maximum weight the hoist can lift.
There are hoists and there are hoists. If it's the type that the wheels run up on ramps then just make sure all four wheels are on. if it's the type where arms swing in under the frame make sure that the lift plates actually contact frame or designated lift points and not the floorboards. If it's the twin post type (rare these days) make sure the posts center on the front suspension and the rear suspension. I saw a guy puncture a gas tank with a two post lift many years ago.
