Safety on ATV trails

Riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) can be an exciting, exhilarating experience.

The Upper Peninsula and northeastern Wisconsin have trails galore to enjoy.

However, in the hands of an untrained operator an ATV can also be very dangerous to operate.

ATV’s handle very differently than other vehicles. Accidents happen very fast, even during routine exercises like turning, riding over obstacles, or riding on hills.

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention:

— Approximately one-third of all ATV-related fatalities are youth under 16 years.

— Central nervous system injuries account for approximately 80 percent of fatalities in ATV-related crashes.

— ATV operators under 16 years are nearly four times more likely than ATV operators over 16 years to experience an injury requiring emergency department treatment.

— Males represent approximately three-quarters of ATV-related injuries treated in an emergency department.

— Approximately 11 percent of injured ATV operators seen in an emergency department are admitted to a hospital.

Does this mean that ATVs a menace to society?

Certainly not.

When used safely and wisely, an all-terrain vehicle can provide a source of fun and family recreation. When used unwisely by an untrained, inexperienced operator, an all-terrain vehicle can be very dangerous.

ATVs have become popular for work and recreation on many farms and camps. With safety in mind, an all-terrain vehicle can be a useful tool for work and a great means of exploring the outdoors.

It is the responsibility of all ATV operators to make the sport a safe one.

ATV safety courses are available in both Michigan and Wisconsin. They are conducted by the Department of Natural Resources.

The Michigan DNR is sponsoring an off-road vehicle safety education program for students in the western Upper Peninsula on Saturday, June 14, at North Dickinson County School. For more information, call Caryn Johnson at (906) 265-9717 or emailed at cjohnson@westiron.org.

For information on more course offerings, contact the local DNR or call 608-266-2621 for Wisconsin dates, or (517) 373-0763 for Michigan dates.

The purpose these training programs is to promote responsible, safe and ethical ATV use.

Even seasoned riders need to exercise safety and good judgment.

Experts offer the following safety tips:

— ATVs are designed for one operator only. Never carry a passenger.

— ATVs are for off-road use only. Never operate an ATV on paved surfaces. Never operate an ATV on public roads.

— Protective clothing is a necessity. Always wear an approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long sleeved shirt or jacket.

— Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during ATV operation.

— Avoid excessive speeds. Travel at a speed appropriate for the terrain, visibility conditions, and your experience.

— Do not attempt wheelies, jumps, or other stunts. These can have disastrous results.

— An ATV is not a toy. Children should not be permitted to operate ATVs without specialized training and then they should be allowed to only operate an ATV of an appropriate size.

— ATVs with an engine size of 70cc to 90cc should be operated by people at least 12 years of age. ATVs with an engine size of greater than 90cc should only be operated by people at least 16 years of age.

— Wear appropriate riding gear including approved helmet, goggles, gloves, over-the-ankle boots, long-sleeve shirt and long pants.

— Read owner’s manuals carefully.

— Any added attachments affect the stability, operating and braking of the ATV. Just because an attachment is available doesn’t mean that it can be used without increasing your risk of being injured.

Inspection

— Are tires and wheels in good condition?

— Are controls and cable operational?

— Does the chain have proper slack and is it lubricated?

— Is riding gear (including a helmet) available and worn?