AHS urging safety for ATV users this Canada Day long weekend

AHS offers the following ATV safety tips to those 16 and over:

Get trained: Before you hit the trails, get formal hands-on training from a recognized/trained ATV instructor. Don’t be shy about refreshing your training seasonally.
Wear the gear: Always wear a helmet. As of May 15, 2017, CSA-compliant helmets must be worn by off highway vehicle users when riding on public land, but a helmet worn every ride can save your life. From 2002 to 2013, 41 per cent of ATV-rider deaths in Alberta were due to head injuries. In 77 per cent of these head injury deaths, the ATV riders were not wearing a helmet. In addition to a helmet, always wear a jacket, long pants, goggles, boots and gloves.
Look first: Be sure you’re aware of the weather forecast, fire outlook/potential, and any hazards (geographical, animal or human) or risks that the trail(s) could pose. Ensure your ATV is equipped with an appropriate headlight. Before you head out on the trail, let others know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. This helps your loved ones know when to call for help if you’ve been gone too long. Take a cell phone or working radio with you, as well as a first-aid kit.
Drive sober: Don’t drink or do drugs before or while operating an ATV: 55 per cent of those who died in ATV crashes between 2002 and 2013 tested positive for alcohol.

Visit www.ahs.ca/injuryprevention.asp for more information on ATV safety and injury prevention.

by Sheldon Spackman