REGINA – STARS air ambulance is reminding all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders to be safe this long weekend as the Victoria Day long weekend is often their busiest time for ATV calls.
Last year alone, STARS responded to 18 ATV accidents in Saskatchewan.
Across the six bases in Western Canada, the fleet responded to 107 serious ATV emergencies.
“Besides a tool and a vehicle, they’re also fun to drive and some people get out of hand, and they go faster than they should be,” STARS Regina Flight Paramedic Darcy Mckay said.
McKay is often on the front lines of those rescue missions, and he said he’s seen it all.
“Lots of trauma, head injuries, broken bones and stuff like that. Lots of people, they’re not sure of their ATV or they’re over confident on their ATV so they’re not driving within their means,” Mckay explained.
McKay also noted STARS responds to more ATV accidents than any other vehicle, including snowmobiles, motorcycles and dirt bikes.
“I don’t know why, but for some reason, we do a lot of ATV trauma, ATV accidents,” McKay acknowledged.
The frequency of those quad calls is why the air rescue mission wants riders to focus more on safety.
“The first thing I would say is make sure you have proper equipment, always wear a helmet, and long sleeves. Drive within your means and of course, don’t drink and ride,” Mckay advised.
He also said alcohol is a big factor, and that many riders will get behind the wheel after having even a beer or two.
Other recommendations include having a buddy system. McKay said riders should always ride with another person. If that isn’t possible, he said it’s good to remind them of where you are and the time you expect to be back.
So far this season, STARS air ambulance has already responded to five ATV calls.
It’s a start to a trauma season they say they don’t want taking off.
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“We’re always here and ready to go to one, but there’s always room to be proactive and take a forward approach. Make sure people are being safe out there,” McKay said.
“Prevention is the key.”
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