Cooler autumn months are a big draw for enthusiasts, hunters, campers, and other adventurists to enjoy their dirt bikes, ATVs, and side-by-sides. And for the first time, the MSF, the ATV Safety Institute, and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association are partnering to promote off-road safety during a special week.
Plus, national off-highway vehicle organizations, together with California State Parks and Tread Lightly!, are encouraging every rider and driver to “Know Before You Go” with tips to help keep everyone and the environment safe. For those in California, there are even free hands-on classes.
The key “Know Before You Go” messages for Off-Road Safety Week:
- Gear: Know what type of gear is required for your type of recreation to prevent injury. Always wear protective gear, including a safe, well-fitting helmet, proper eye protection, gloves, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots.
- Location: Check ahead for open trails. Plan a route and get to know what type of terrain you may encounter. Vehicular recreation areas have diverse geology, so learn about the various trail experience levels before you head out – to avoid emergencies. Tell someone at home or at camp where you are going and when you plan to return. Have that person notify law enforcement if you do not return on time.
- Supplies: Know what you need to have for a successful ride. Be prepared with a first-aid kit, extra water and food, maps, a tool kit, and extra fuel.
- Safety: Before you ride or drive, look over your vehicle to ensure tires are inflated properly and all other controls and lights are operating properly. Never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Ride only on designated routes and trails and at a safe speed. Remember that wildlife have the right-of-way. If you haven’t ridden or driven in a while, consider brushing up by taking a safety course.
“Off-Road Safety Week is a great opportunity for new riders and drivers to learn how to safely and responsibly use their off-road vehicles, and for current users to refresh their skills,” said Robert Gladden, MSF vice president of training operations. “In California, free classes are being offered through the MSF DirtBike School, the ATV Safety Institute, and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association. We are also proud to work with Tread Lightly! to extend the reach of our safety messages to all OHV users.”
“We encourage all riders and drivers to learn safety basics and be prepared for anything,” said Matt Caldwell, Tread Lightly! executive director. “Thank you to all the organizations that are helping to promote safe, responsible off-roading to protect our riders and public lands.”
The Dirt Bike Academy offers adventure bike and dirt bike training classes for both complete beginners and experienced riders in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. We teach kids and adults in separate classes for dirt bike riders and adventure bike riders. Our beginner coaches and classes are fully certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.