Vroooom – Ride Smart, Stay Safe If you are planning to buy or currently own an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) or snowmobile, you can look forward to lots of fun and excitement. Although the number of serious accidents has declined over the past several years, we would like to remind enthusiasts to do their part to make this sport safe and enjoyable for all. Please follow these common sense safety tips. Before you set out: Inform others of your destination and when you plan to arrive or return. Inspect your ATV or snowmobile for broken or worn parts.  Bring your tool kit and extra spark plugs. Make sure you have enough gas. Wear suitable clothing for the climate.  Dress in layers with warm protective boots.  Children are especially prone to the cold, so dress them well. Always wear your DOT rated full-face helmet, even for a short ride. Carry first aid and survival kits. On the trails: Ride within your ability and according to trail and weather conditions. Respect private lands. Follow trail signage and ride defensively – stay to the right. Obey speed limits and reduce speed in unfamiliar territory. Exercise care when crossing roadways and railway tracks. At night: Slow down! Your headlight limits how far ahead you can see.  The slower you are traveling, the less distance you need to stop. Avoid driving along road shoulders. Maintain enough stopping distance between riders. Riding on Ice: Be aware of ice conditions.  Ice is never totally safe and conditions can change rapidly. Wear a flotation suit and carry ice picks. Never ride alone, it is safer and more fun with a buddy. If someone goes through the ice, stay calm and have them grab as far up the edge as they can and kick their feet to help keep them keep afloat. Look for something to pull them to safety such as a rope, jacket or tree branch.  If others are around form a human chain. Never walk or stand near the opening, lie down and proceed with caution.   Close