Submitted by:
Bob Woodward
Northern Rentals
and Power Products Ltd.
ATV Safety Session
Swan River
Tuesday,
September 11, 2012
6:30 to 9:30 pm
All terrain vehicles (ATVs) are wonderful machines that can save many miles and lots of work. ATVs are also used for recreation, especially in the beautiful Swan Valley and surrounding parks. Whether for work or recreation, it is important to be aware of the hazards associated with them and know how to stay safe.
It’s important that everyone is aware of the hazards associated with operating ATVs and utility terrain vehicles (UTV). The key things to know about the proper use of an all terrain vehicle are:
• make sure anyone using an ATV/UTV under your responsibility has been properly trained in basic ATV operation and safety. This includes
family members and employees
• never allow passengers on an ATV – ATV’s are designed for the driver to have ample room to manoeuvre as required by the terrain
• always wear an approved ATV helmet
• never drive on or across a highway, unless you have a permit
Most workplaces in Manitoba fall under the jurisdiction of the Workplace Safety and Health Act and its regulations. ATV use in Manitoba agricultural operations must therefore comply with vehicle registration and highway traffic legislation.
There are unlimited uses for ATVs on farms, ranches and other agricultural workplaces. From herding livestock, moving sick or injured animals, to checking fences and irrigation to moving snow, ATV’s are a versatile machine. But the key to their use is being sure everyone knows how to operate them safely.
With over 550 miles of trails to experience through the Duck Mountains, Porcupine Forest and surrounding area, recreational ATVing is a common pass time for valley residents. Safe-use and operation needs to be uppermost in the minds of the users when they are using them recreationally, as well.
The Canadian Agriculture Safety Association (CASA) and Farm Credit Canada (FCC) are supporting funding in partnership with Northern Rentals and Power Products Ltd. to offer an ATV safety session in Swan River on Tuesday, September 11, 2012 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Our main goal is to increase awareness and educate users on safe ATV operation which will result in decreased incidents and farm related injuries.
For more information, contact Meghan Rose at 204-734-3417.
