Beginners Guide
Safety and Responsibility
|
|
As an ATV rider you are responsible for the safe
operation of your machine. However, most of us forget that we also have a civic
responsibility for the safety of others, especially children. Simple things like
reminding other riders to bring their helmets, discouraging riders from
attempting any trail they are not completely comfortable in navigating and
riding in groups are just a few small things that can be a big help.
Safety is every riders responsibility! |
|
We encourage you and your children to take an ATV
safety course. Only through proper instruction can children learn to ride
responsibly and safely. Below are a few pages from the Wisconsin DNR ATV Student
Safety Course instructional booklet:
SHOW YOU CARE!
The only place anyone can ATV or enjoy any other
activity with no regard to anything, acting as if it were your God-given right
to do what and as you please, is on your own property. Once you leave your
property, you automatically assume the responsibilities inherent in being a
guest on someone else's land.
The public use of private lands is a privilege. ATV'ing has benefited from the
willingness of private landowners to share their lands. Many landowners have
come to view the local ATV club as a means for them to open their lands with
some degree of confidence that the land will be treated with consideration. In
many areas there is a positive, friendly, working relationship between the
landowner and the club.
However, this relationship is threatened by the inappropriate use of private
lands. More than ever, land users need to show they care by doing their part to
protect the privilege of using the private lands. Clubs are aware of this, as
are most ATV'ers who are members of clubs. On private or public property, "show
you care" means treating the land the same way you would want someone else to
treat your private property: with respect.
On trails throughout Wisconsin, messages are appearing asking ATV'ers not to
abuse this privilege or loss of trail will result. Club grooming activities are
more and more being relied upon to provide an incentive for riders to stay on
the trail, not stray off looking for smoother surfaces. Many clubs use this time
of year to thank landowners for allowing the club the use of the land for an ATV
trail. Be sure your club is doing all it can to ensure a positive, working
relationship with the private landowner.
|