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Parkland Ambulance reminds riders to be safe

Sep 24, 2018 | 2:00 PM

After responding to two all terrain vehicle crashes over the weekend Parkland Ambulance is reminding riders to be safe while having fun.

RCMP investigated and confirmed a nine-year-old was driving the ATV that was involved in a collision with a vehicle on the Muskoday First Nation. Police are not pursuing any charges in the matter.

Both boys involved in the crash were taken to hospital in serious but stable condition. One was taken to the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon for further treatment. 

“An ATV or all terrain vehicle can be a useful vehicle around the farm, yard or while out hunting,” a press release from Parkland Ambulance read. “It is also the pride of many recreational weekend riders but in the hands of an unexperienced user, dangerous.”

A series of tips accompanied the Parkland Ambulance release for riders to keep top-of mind.

Riders are encouraged to only ride off-road, never on public roads, while wearing a helmet and proper protection for eyes and bodies. ATV’s should always be checked on before a ride, and owners are encouraged to know their manuals.

“Before getting on an ATV be sure you are familiar with the operation of the machine,” Parkland’s release read. “Make sure that includes some trouble shooting tips should you have mechanical difficulty.”

Operators should be riding with friends, and never alone. There should be no additional passengers, and youngsters should always be supervised while riding. ATV’s should only be lent to skilled riders, and individual operators should be riding within their skill level.

“Parents should ensure that machine can be safely controlled by their child,” the release said. “Don’t allow them to operate any machinery with more power than they can handle.”

Riders are asked to stay sober, keep noise levels low, and respect riding area rules.

 

panews@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @BryanEneas