SASKATOON – Summer is almost here and ATV enthusiasts are revving up to get out and explore the Prairies. According to the Saskatchewan All-Terrain Vehicle Association (SATVA), safety can mean the difference between a nice ride and spending time in the hospital.
To help people understand their limitations to have a safe and enjoyable experience, the SATVA has launched a province-wide awareness campaign this month called “Know Your Limits.”
READ MORE: One dead in ATV crash near Melville, Sask.
The campaign will run throughout the summer and fall. Posters, brochures and other promotional material distributed will be distributed throughout this period to inform riders.
“If you know your limits, there’s no limit to the fun you can have while ATVing,” said John Meed, SATVA general manager.
“We’ve found that there are some ATVers who simply don’t understand their limitations while ATVing, whether they are seasoned veterans or newcomers.”
In 2013, there were eight ATV-related fatalities and 47 people were injured in ATV crashes in the province, according the SATVA’s website.
SATVA recommends these 10 guidelines for ATV safety:
- Children riding “age appropriate” ATVs: ATV’s have warning labels which advises what minimum age is appropriate. Placing a child on one that is too large or powerful could have dire consequences:
- Do not allow passengers: Single person ATV’s are designed with a specific centre of gravity and adding a passenger can create a dangerous imbalance in the ATV, especially when maneuvering around obstacles:
- Always wear protective gear: Saskatchewan law requires that all ATV riders wear a helmet and eye protection on public property or on property that the rider does not own.
- Don’t drink and ride: Operating an ATV on public or private property while impaired is dangerous and illegal:
- Don’t speed: Increasing the speed – especially through certain terrains – decreases your ability to control the vehicle and keep it stable:
- Ride in appropriate settings: Riders should avoid roads and streets when driving, except to cross the road or go around obstacles:
- Get trained – If a rider is between 12 to 15 years old or does not have a driver’s licence they should take an approved safety course. However, all riders can benefit from a little safety refresher:
- Carry a cellphone or walkie talkie: While riding alone is not encouraged, carrying a communications device will at least ensure that someone will be able to find you in the event of an emergency:
- Don’t attempt tricky manoeuvres: Injuries on ATVs commonly occur when drivers attempt a trick or stunt beyond their capabilities:
- Use common sense: By simply using your head you can avoid a potentially dangerous situation.
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