Some great SAFETY Info!
Chippewa Valley ATVer's Care about your SAFETY!
When we set out to redo this page, there was a lot of input to what we believe as individuals and as a club. Safety is a #1 concern on our trail systems here in Wisconsin, and it is vital to the longevity of the sport and to a life.
While each situation is unique when it comes to accidents, trail use, and another person, lets face it folks, there is always a need to protect yourself when it comes to all of those matters. Just use good common sense....your life and another's depend on it!
Let's Talk about Gear...
Gear for your personal protection is paramount. While Wisconsin's laws do not mandate protective clothing rules about this for adults, it is encouraged. Riders under 18 are required to wear head protection and everyone should wear eye protection. Our links page provides several great companies to shop for quality riding apparel.
Every rider should consider wearing a Helmet that fits well. If a helmet does not fit well and is not strapped to your skull, it may not be as effective if you would need to use it. Years of technology go into the make up, comfort and usability of helmets and many of the helmets meet or exceed industry and government standards for safety if used properly.
There are many different styles and price ranges for purchasing helmets. Remember - if you're going to spend thousands of dollars on your machine and accessories, spend a few more and protect your head and body too. It just makes good sense and can add years to your atving enjoyment!
You cant talk about helmets and not mention Goggles. Yes, eye protection!! A good pair will protect your eyes from sun, sweat, debris, and wind damage....a good piece of equipment to own. Loss of your sight could be devastating...protect it at all times!
Gloves... Having your hands be bumped by limbs, or hit by rocks or other debris from the trails can be painful. A good pair of well fitting gloves is essential to protecting your hands!
Boots are also a good idea...have you seen when some people ride with flip flops on?? Do yourself a favor and put some good protection on your feet! If your feet are comfortable, dry and warm, it adds hours of fun!!
Long pants and long sleeves on shirts are good protection for your skin. In the hot weather, vented jerseys and pants allow air to pass thru so you wont feel so hot. Do what you can to protect your skin from sun damage, brush, and insects.
Rain Gear protects your body and clothing from the elements. Hypothermia can set in easily if you become wet and cold traveling at any rate of speed if you are away from shelter.
Safety Flags
Keep checking for updates on the State of WI website!
Students can sign up on the DNR web site and must have a DNR ID number to attend. The course can be paid for at the site.
ARE YOU READY TO RIDE??
Tires- When is the last time you checked the air pressure in your ATV tires?? The sidewalls of your tires are imprinted with the correct psi (inflation) levels for your grade of tire.
Other important items you should try and have in the group you ride with - 1. a 12 volt air compressor 2. Low pressure tire guage 3. Tire patch for punctured tire
Other items to carry with on your ATV;
Tool Kit - Spark Plug - Flashlight - Batteries - GMRS Radio - Spare Headlight - Duct/Electrical Tape - Waterproof Matches - First Aid Kit - Tow Rope -Compass - Map - Flares- Food/Water - Knife - Axe/Shovel - Tarp - Rain Gear - Toilet Paper (biodegradeable) - Gloves - Dry Socks
Take A Class!!!
SAFETY TRAINING CLASS AVAILABLE!!!!!!
We have a few members of the Chippewa Valley ATVers that offer classes, so please keep checking here for dates and times!!
Please review Wisconsin ATV Laws frequently. This is available online as well as in print and everyone receives them with their registrations.
Travel on Routes and Trails
When traveling on trails or routes pay attention to the posted speeds and location for ATV travel. Conservation Wardens and local law enforcement officers are using radar units and can issue tickets for any of those reasons. There are various other signs posted specifically for atv travel, so please be aware of those and follow the rules for the area you are traveling. A great way to be informed of local rules in the area in which you plan to travel, is to go to that areas website or contact the local DNR office for information before you go!
Make sure you are aware of the rules for young riders on Routes. Riders under 12 cannot operate on routes on their own power unit. The rider will have to have their quad towed and they can ride with their parent or another adult - they should never ride on a towed quad.
Riders that are younger than 12 can operate an atv that is 90cc on trails ONLY with a parent and having direct communication with that parent. Many parents have purchased a small GMRS Radio and installed a headset and boom mic into the childs helmet for communication - this is an awesome idea! Once a child turns 12, he/she is able to take the DNR Safety Certification Test and Class to be able to ride without parental supervision once a certificate has been obtained.
TRAIL ETHICS
The Wisconsin DNR has a Code of Trail Ethics...this is a good read and should be followed.
1. Courtesy and respect for others will enhance everyone's enjoyment in the use of the trail systems. Always exercise caution, stay on designated trails, obey all posted and unposted trail rules/regualtions, and know your limits to ensure a safe ride.
2. Be a good and responsible ATV operator. Take a class, get informed, and learn proper, safe atv use. Your actions are judged as actions of all ATV riders.
3. Young people and new riders learn from experienced riders....set good examples and be a role model.
4. Be aware of and follow all state, county, city and township laws pertaining to ATV vehicles traveling on designated trails and routes.
5. Wear appropriate safety apparel including a helmet and goggles.
6. When trails are wet, take it easy on soft ground. Remember somebody has to fix and maintain the trail and your use will last a lifetime.
7. Do not damage living trees, shrubs or the environment. Pack out all garbage that you create...never throw it on the ground! Avoid and make the area safe for wildlife. Never intrude on them!
8. Operate the ATV at a rate of speed that is resonable for you under the circumstances - never rush to "keep up" if your skills arent as good.
9. Respect the rights of others on the trail. Use hand signals to tell how many are behind you, for turning, or stopping or slowing. Stay to the RIGHT through corners...trails are not race courses! Respect other "silent sports" individuals...it's their right to use recreation areas as well.
10. Keep speeds SLOW in parking area - most are 5 MPH for safety. Dont create excessive dust or activity near others who have stopped!! RESPECT!!
11. POWER TURNS (donuts) are destructive - do not do these!. Gravel roads and parking lots must be kept in pristine condition and road crossings need to be respected...dont throw dirt onto the roadways or cause damage to the edge of the roads!! Remember that someone has to fix and maintain these areas.
12. USE COMMON SENSE! It is a priviledge to ride on public property. Lets' all work together and see our trail system preserved and expanded with responsible use and available for our future riders!
13. Make your ATV available for all search and rescue or emergency operations needing assistance.
14. Stay on designated trails and routes! Riders who cannot stay on designated trails and routes are not welcome and risk loosing those trails for others. If you see anyone off trail riding, or causing damage, please contact the DNR or the Forest Service and report them!!