Critical Days of Summer: Practice ATV safety

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sean Johnson
  • 341st Missile Wing Safety
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Here's some food for thought: according to www.ATVSafety.gov, the government all-terrain vehicle safety website, from 2007 through 2009, Montana experienced 18 ATV-related fatalities averaging six deaths per year. According to the Montana Highway Patrol, from 2010 through to present day, Montana has experienced 10 motorcycle fatalities, practically mirroring the deaths experienced from ATV's. Given the massive and obvious difference in miles driven between motorcycles and ATV's, it's easy to conclude how much more dangerous operating an ATV than a motorcycle.

The riding season for ATV's is in full swing and the drive to get off base and experience the great weather is strong. However, operating an ATV is only vaguely similar to driving a car. Knowledge about using the body and mind to do it safely is key. The steps of Risk Management used by the men and women of Air Force Global Strike Command point those members to available training, personal protective equipment and sound risk managing decisions.

First of all, when considering buying a new ATV, know where there is training available on how to use and operate it. According to Jun Villegas, spokesperson for the ATV Safety Institute, riding classes and online courses are available for anyone 6 years old and up. In fact, anyone wanting to buy an ATV should consider the "Try Before You Buy" program. This program offers riding classes, allowing one to operate ATV's in a safe riding environment before making a purchase. Most ATV manufacturers will refund you the cost of the training after purchasing their product and may even provide incentives: cash back or discounts on safety PPE. For a complete list of all the benefits of taking an ATV Safety Institute riding class, visit www.atvsafety.org and check the website to see if the manufacturer of the brand you are interested in participates in the refunding of class costs. Spouses have special benefits included in the cost of the training. In addition to that, a family-style class is available so kids and parents can learn at the same time. Also, available to all riders and future riders, the ATV Safety Institute offers a free E-Course testing knowledge important to riding an ATV safely. Signing up for classes is as simple as visiting the website or making a phone call to 1-800-887-2887. The classes are taught locally and most instructors are from Malmstrom AFB.

Whether buying a new or used ATV, understanding how to use it safely is paramount. Even being an "experienced" rider does not exclude one from having the responsibility of getting better.

Personal Protective Equipment is just as important as training. Having all the available training won't reduce the amount of time spent in the emergency room if the proper PPE use taught during that training isn't worn.

Understandably, one of the most important pieces of equipment is the helmet. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet. Full face helmets, among other styles, are available at many local retailers and even online, though it is recommended to try the helmet on and fasten it appropriately before taking ownership. Goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves are the other parts of PPE not to be overlooked. Important to remember is there is no safety cage on an ATV like the one in a personal motor vehicle. These pieces of equipment "act" like your safety cage and leaving home without them is similar to leaving home knowing the family car's seatbelts don't work.

One important fact to keep in the mind is about carrying passengers. Most ATV's are not designed for this. In fact, very few are. Operating an ATV requires a tremendous amount of body control and situational awareness. Having a passenger is a distraction and impedes on the ability to properly steer and stop.

Like any other type of machinery or vehicle, alcohol and ATV's do not mix. Don't consume any alcohol before operating an ATV.

Unfortunately, in the state of Montana, there are no age restrictions on the use of ATV's or mandates on taking safety classes, according to the Transportation Synthesis Report. However, as Air Force members, Excellence and Integrity drive the decisions on proper supervision for children operating an ATV.

Another law issue with ATV's in Montana is the legality of operating an ATV on paved roads. The State of Montana allows ATV's on public roads. However, every single manufacturer of four wheeled ATV's has a position on this topic and the general consensus of those making the vehicle overwhelmingly state that ATV's are not constructed for on-road use. Steering, stopping and general control of an ATV on paved roads is very difficult and one would be wise to consider this before doing so.

ATV's are a tremendous asset when wanting to explore the topography offered by this scenic state. Important to remember is the fact that ATV's are not toys. Training, PPE, and sound decision making will greatly improve the safety of operators and greatly improve the quality of that outdoor experience.