Thunder Bay District Health Unit media release
THUNDER BAY – Due to the high rates of ATV injuries every year, the local health unit are reminding operators to stay safe.
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit, in a release issued Monday, said every year there are about 150 emergency department visits due to ATV injuries in the Thunder Bay District.
In 2015, half of those injuries involved persons between the age of 10 and 29.
The health unit and SAVE committee want to remind outdoor enthusiasts to stay safe on their all-terrain vehicles and off-road vehicles.
“In 2015, Emergency department visits for ATV injures were 2 times higher for the Thunder Bay District compared to the rest of Ontario,” says Rachel McKay, public health nurse. “This is a really important issue for us as it is a popular activity for many people in our region.”
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is asking the public to help us reduce the number of injuries this summer by remembering to:
- Always wear an approved helmet and other safety gear.
- Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV.
- Get training before you ride.
- Never ride while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- Supervise riders younger than 16.
- Follow the designated speed limits.
Another thing to consider is the whether your ATVs/ORVs can travel along a certain provincial highway or municipal roads.
Some municipalities have by-laws in place permitting on-road ATV/ORVs, so be sure to check out your local requirements.
For more information on ATV/ORV safety, legal requirements and where to ride, visit www.ontario.ca/atv and www.e-laws.gov.on.ca
