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Extension, 4-H offer ATV safety training
June 2-10 is ATV Safety Week
WEST POINT, Miss. -- Many Mississippians enjoy the usefulness and thrill of riding all-terrain vehicles, but the dangerous nature of these machines is highlighted in the June 2-10 4-H ATV Safety Week.
Mississippi ranks 15th in the nation in ATV-related deaths. In 2017, nine youngsters died after suffering traumatic injuries in ATV accidents.
The Mississippi State University Extension Service is offering educational opportunities to help the state’s young people safely use these vehicles. These free, safe-riding classes meet at the Jimmy Bryan 4-H Youth Complex in West Point.
Classes will take place at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. each day from June 3 through June 10. Register for these half-day ATV safety classes at https://bit.ly/2LcpPtI. Riders will use ATVs supplied by event organizers. Each safety course registrant will receive a free helmet after completion of the class.
To legally ride or operate ATVs on public land, Mississippians without driver’s licenses must earn ATV safety cards. It is illegal to drive ATVs on roads. People of all ages benefit from wearing helmets while riding ATVs, but minors are required to wear them.
In addition to the riding-safety classes, those with creative talents are encouraged to enter a contest to develop the best public service announcement on ATV safety. This contest is open to all 4-H members until June 30. Prizes will be awarded.
For more information about the ATV Safety Week events June 2-10, visit http://extension.msstate.edu/4-h/4-h-safety-programs/atv-safety.
