Today, RCMP NL launched the second phase of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) safety campaign and enhanced enforcement initiative at a news conference held at the RCMP Detachment in Holyrood. The initial campaign was launched in response to the number of deaths of operators of recreational vehicles in 2020 – seventeen people, ranging in age from 14 to 91, died while operating ATVs and snowmobiles in areas policed by RCMP NL last year. So far this year, there has been one fatality compared to four deaths for the same time frame last year.
Assistant Commissioner Ches Parsons, Commanding Officer of the RCMP in Newfoundland and Labrador, spoke at the launch.
"The decrease in the number of deaths thus far this year is certainly encouraging, as is the level of public dialogue and support we saw for Phase 1 of the campaign," said Assistant Commissioner Parsons. "However, with the May long weekend and summer riding season just around the corner, we know there will be increased riding activity, making it even more important to continue our focus on ATV safety."
Phase 2 of the social media campaign will run from today through Labor Day weekend and will feature off-road vehicle operators in the province demonstrating safe driving behaviour. Corporal Jolene Garland, Media Relations Officer with RCMP NL, spoke to the focus of the campaign.
"While we recognize that there are many people who do not follow the rules with respect to the operation of off-road vehicles, we are confident that a vast majority of people obey the law and wear the proper safety gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience," said Corporal Garland. "When we issued a public call for photos to include in Phase 2, we were overwhelmed by the number of responses and support for the campaign. The main messages of Phase 2 to all who operate ATVs and other recreational vehicles are to ride safe, ride sober and wear the safety gear."
The majority of deaths of off-road vehicle operators are preventable, with many involving factors of speed, alcohol consumption and lack of safety equipment such as helmets and seatbelts. Enhanced enforcement efforts will continue throughout the summer across the province.
"Our officers will be on patrol looking for violations; those who do not follow the rules can expect to be ticketed and to have their ATVs seized in certain cases," said Staff Sergeant David Ossinger, supervisor of RCMP NL Traffic Services. "There really is no better way to explore this beautiful province than by ATV. Let's do it safely."
RCMP NL appreciates the support of its partners Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation, Avalon T'Railways, Avalon ATV, Safety NL, Ride the Rock Adventures and the Newfoundland and Labrador Brain Injury Association and asks the public to continue its support by sharing the campaign's social media images and talking about ATV safety with loved ones.
#Live2Ride #Ride2Live #RideSafeRideSober #WearTheGear