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ATV safety key concern during 101 Critical Days of Summer

By Airman 1st Class Jared Bratsberg, 341st Logistics Readiness Squadron / Published July 19, 2007

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MALMSTORM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- All-terrain vehicles or "quads" were originally developed in Japan as a farm-to-town vehicle in isolated mountainous areas. In the early '70s, the quad was introduced to the United States as an adventure toy, quickly sparking a new and thrilling pastime. 

Today, ATVs are found in the back of pickup trucks, on farms, race tracks, hunting trips and even on city streets in some states; however, as the culture grew, so did an increasing awareness of the dangers involved with riding. 

According to an article from www.arrivealive.com, 5,791 ATV-related deaths have been reported in the U.S. since 1982; 1,846 of the victims were under the age of 16, which is one of the highest rates of injuries. Seven-hundred-seventy-eight of the victims were under the age of 12. In 2002, in the U.S., ATV crashes resulted in 357 fatalities and 113,900 injured riders. 

Many injuries are caused by completely preventable circumstances and are attributed to misuse of the machine. Excessive speed and alcohol are two lethal risk factors and when combined can cause fatalities. Operators must know the limits of both the quad and their own reflexes. 

Prior to riding, operators should complete an approved ATV safety class. These classes teach general knowledge of the machines and often include variable riding conditions with instructions on how to properly navigate through difficult terrain. 

Never operate a quad under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Many people like to camp, drink beer and ride quads; if found in operation of an ATV with a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or higher; the operator will be arrested and charged as if driving a car. 

Riders should suit up in all proper personal protective equipment to include: 
* Suitable head protection must be worn. The helmet is the most important piece of protective gear for safe riding. It should fit snugly and be securely fastened. 
* Eye protection (a visor or safety glasses) should provide protection against flying insects, dust or branches. Sunglasses are not safety goggles and do not provide adequate eye protection. The eye protection should not block the vision of the driver. 
* Protective boots with a good grip and ankle support must protect the feet of the driver. Never ride barefooted - leather high - top boots with heels to prevent the feet from slipping off the footrests are recommended. 
* Gloves protect your hands, provide a better grip, and help you control and handle the vehicle. Gloves also prevent fatigue from vibration, scratches from brush, and protection from cold weather. Off-road type gloves, which have padding over the knuckles, offer the most protection. 
* Wear non-snag long pants and long sleeved shirts that will prevent scratches from bushes. The use of high-visibility clothing may also be appropriate. Serious riders should wear off-road racing gear (ballistic jacket) that has padded areas at the knees, elbows and shoulders. 

(Information courtesy of the article "Quad Bike Safety" at www.arrivealive.com posted May 24, 2007).
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