Safe and responsible ATV riding

09/14/2011

The Community Protection Unit of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke would like to remind community members of safe and responsible practices when riding an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV).
 
Community Protection have received notices that people have been riding ATV’s on the railroad tracks by the Adirondack Junction and riding over the CPR Lift Bridge that spans over the Seaway.

Community members are asked to please refrain from riding on highways, railroad tracks and other potentially hazardous areas.

The following precautions should be taken when riding an ATV:
•    ALWAYS wear a DOT-rated helmet
•    Follow the safe operating instructions in the ATV owner’s manual
•    NEVER ride with passengers - although ATV add-ons allow for extra passengers, ATV riding capabilities are mechanically designed for one person
•    NEVER ride on a railroad track – if you must cross, make a complete stop and observe both directions and cross only if no trains are visible
•    NEVER cross railroad tracks if the warning lights are illuminated or if the safety bar is lowered
•    ENSURE your ATV is inspected and maintained for safe operation

Riding an ATV always increases the risk of an accident, whether it is operated safely or not, but taking precautions will significantly reduce that risk.

For more information, please contact Arnold Lazare of the Community Protection Unit at 450-632-0635.