As the weather warms up, more and more will be revving up their ATVs and hitting our region’s outstanding trails.
This is ATV Safety Awareness Week, and the OPP are asking that you wear a helmet. They note that more than half of the people who died in OPP-investigated off-road vehicle crashes last year weren’t wearing the vital piece of gear.
The OPP’s Bill Dickson adds that alcohol and off-roading don’t get along at all.
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The Awareness Week runs until Sunday and both the OPP and the Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs are urging riders to make safety their top priority.
Police say riders should always wear an approved helmet, never drive under the influence, and avoid speeding.
Dickson says they also encourage off-roaders to make sure someone knows where they are.
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Maintaining your ATV and riding safely can help ensure everyone gets home at the end of the day.
Parents are urged to register young riders in Ontario’s online ATV Training Course for Youth.