Having Fun with an ATV means Safety First Kent Shannon Extension Ag Engineer University Outreach and Extension

Safety First Skills to Review –Which ATV? –Golden Rules –Plan Ahead –Respect (TREAD Lightly) –Laws & Regulations

Choose an ATV that … Is right for your age: –Under 70 cc for 6 years or older –70-90 cc for 12 years or older –Over 90 cc for 16 years or older

Check the Golden Rules ATV Size –Choose the right ATV for your age Supervision –If you’re under 16, always have adult supervision Protective Gear –Wear protective gear No passengers –Do not take any passengers

Check the Golden Rules No public roads –Do not ride on public roads No paved surfaces –Always avoid paved surfaces Hands-on Training –Take hands-on training course. Call or (Polaris models) for more info.

Plan ahead… Inspect your ATV. Always ride in a group. Be aware of weather conditions and how they may change. Bring warm clothing, a waterproof survival kit and first aid kit.

Plan ahead… Tell someone your route and plans. If you’re under 16, always have adult supervision. Limit your trip distances to avoid fatigue. Don’t use alcohol or other drugs. Be careful with prescription or over-the- counter drugs. They may affect your judgment.

Pre-Ride Check Check Your ATV Check Your Gear Check the Golden Rules

Check Your ATV Things to Check –Tires & Wheels –Controls & Cables –Lights & Electrics –Oil & Fuel –Chassis

Check Your Gear Things to Check –Helmet –Goggles or (Face Shield) –Long-Sleeved Shirt –Gloves –Long Pants –Boots

Know Your ATV Skills to Review –Mount –Posture –Start the ATV –Begin the Ride –Brake –Park –Dismount

Rider-Active Skills Skills to Review –Turns –Stops –Swerves –Obstacles –Hills

Practice respect… TRAVEL – Travel only where motorized vehicles are permitted. RESPECT – Respect the rights of hikers, skiers, campers, and others. EDUCATE – Educate yourself by obtaining maps and regulations from public agencies. Obey signs and barriers. Ask for owner’s permission to cross private property. AVOID – Avoid streams, lake shores, meadows, muddy trails, steep hillsides, wildlife, and livestock. DRIVING – Driving (riding) responsibly means protecting the environment and riding respectfully.

How do you become a safe rider who can handle trails? Use SIPDE! S – Search I – Identify P – Predict D – Decide E - Execute