How many times does it have to be said before it sinks in? When it comes to riding snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles or motorcycles, it is imperative that you wear a helmet.
Case and point – this past weekend, the RCMP near Swan Hills responded to a call where a man was thrown from his ATV. His young son was a passenger, and managed to walk away relatively unscathed. What is so important to point out here, is the fact the father was driving without a helmet. Fortunately, the boy was wearing a helmet.
The father was transported to a hospital in Edmonton via STARS, because he was in critical condition when he was rushed to the Swan Hills hospital. It’s such a preventable scenario. The purpose of this editorial is not to make this man’s family feel any worse, because many people in this area know full well the tragedy that can occur on any type of vehicle like an ATV. The purpose of this editorial is to reiterate the importance of wearing a helmet, and to remember safe riding practices.
Even had this individuals ATV not rolled, the fact of the matter is he wasn’t wearing a helmet. Barrhead peace officer Dave Horner has stated time and again that people caught operating an ATV or any other vehicle where a helmet is required, will face a fine. Of course, that’s the bare minimum of what can happen. The ultimate price is a life.
Experts recommend riders take simple steps to ensure they live to ride another day:
• Protect your head. Wear an approved helmet with face and eye protection.
• Age matters. Kids under 16 years old should not operate an adult ATV. Follow manufacturers’ recommendations for age and size. Kids’ level of development puts them at a higher risk for injury and death on ATVs. Make sure there is always close, visual, adult supervision.
• Zero tolerance. Alcohol, drugs and ATVs don’t mix.
• One rider. Refuse to carry or be a passenger on an ATV built for one person.
• Get the skills. Take an ATV operator training course.
Driving an ATV is a fun way to get around the many areas of northern Alberta. There are many, many sights to be seen, and many places to explore.
It’s unfortunate that incidents like the one that happened near Swan Hills this past weekend are what it takes to bring into the spotlight the need to remind all recreation vehicle drivers that safety is first and foremost whenever out on the trails and roadways.
