Ontario is taking a significant step towards improving safety for young ATV riders with the launch of the Ready to RideON program. This new initiative is a collaborative effort by the Ontario Quad Safety Council, in partnership with the Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicle Clubs (OFATV), Yamaha Motor Canada, and Bombardier Recreational Products. It aims to address the increasing number of ATV-related injuries among youths by offering a comprehensive online safety course.
ATVs are popular among young individuals, especially in rural areas and on farms, where they are often essential for daily tasks and recreation. However, these vehicles can be dangerous.
Weighing over 600 pounds and capable of speeds exceeding 100 kilometres per hour, ATVs pose a significant risk, particularly to inexperienced riders. In 2018, SickKids reported a troubling number of serious injuries and fatalities, emphasizing the urgent need for structured training and education.
The Ready to RideON program is designed specifically for 12 to 15-year-olds, providing them with essential knowledge about ATV operation, safety measures, and responsible riding habits. The course, which costs $40 and lasts two hours, covers all aspects of ATV use, from understanding the machine's parts to navigating Ontario's trails responsibly.
The importance of such training is backed by data. Studies indicate that regions with mandatory safety training have lower incidences of ATV-related accidents among youth. Moreover, the Ontario Provincial Police highlight the need for vigilance, noting numerous fatalities and injuries in recent years due to ATV and side-by-side incidents.
The program not only seeks to reduce these statistics but also to instill a lifelong respect for ATV safety standards among young riders. Industry leaders express strong support for the initiative, emphasizing education and preparedness as key factors in preventing accidents.
By participating in Ready to RideON, young riders in Ontario can gain the skills and confidence needed to enjoy ATV riding safely and responsibly. For more information or to register, visit the OFATV website and help ensure a safer riding future for our youth.
For more information visit ofatv.org/ready-to-rideon.