South Bruce OPP ATV patrol focuses on rider safety

(SOUTH BRUCE, ON) – All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Safety Awareness Week runs May 31 to June 9, and is an excellent opportunity for Ontario ATV enthusiasts to educate themselves about what they can do to make every ride a safe and enjoyable one.

The OPP is reporting a 125-per-cent increase in ATV fatalities in 2024, with more than half of the deceased found without a helmet.

Nine people (eight drivers, one passenger) have died in OPP-investigated ATV incidents this year, compared to three drivers and one passenger at this time last year. With one-third of this year's fatalities involving alcohol and/or drugs, the data is a reminder that some ATV riders dismiss the significant risks these (and other poor riding behaviours) pose.

The OPP and its valued partner, the Ontario Federation of All-Terrain Vehicle Clubs (OFATV), are urging all ATV riders, regardless of riding experience or skill level, to wear a properly-fitted off-road vehicle helmet during every ride. ATV enthusiasts are also reminded to always ride sober/drug-free, maintain control of their vehicle, and take an ATV driving course.

Safe riding habits need to start at the very outset. Parents/guardians of youth who are interested in taking up ATV riding, are encouraged to enroll them in Ontario's Youth ATV Rider Training Program.

The OPP is responsible for patrolling more than 99,000 kilometres of waterways and trails, and more than 130,000 kilometres of roadway throughout Ontario.

"The South Bruce OPP detachment is committed to off-road safety in our community and recognizes that our efforts locally contribute to the overall success of the OPP, provincially,” says inspector Keegan Wilcox, detachment commander. “The safety of our community members is our priority. ATV-trained officers will be scheduled to patrol the trails in our various municipalities over the summer months."

The South Bruce OPP area is unique with Huron Shores ATV club membership trails like the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club (OFSC) snowmobile trails. Occupants on the trails are required to have paid memberships. The Huron Shores ATV club operates under the permission of the County of Bruce as the wooded lots and Rail-Trail (formerly railroad section) are owned by the county.

Members of the South Bruce OPP met with representatives of the ATV club and toured the trails, reviewing trail safety.

The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information on Impaired Driving, aggressive driving to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.