Manitobans gearing up to climbing onto their off-road vehicle (ORV) over the next several months are encouraged to have their fun while keeping safety top of mind.

ORVs – which include all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes and utility terrain vehicles – are an important part of outdoor life for many Manitobans. They're fun to ride, have practical uses and can get you places that you otherwise might not have access to. These machines can be very powerful and require the operator's complete attention. Every spring, RCMP officers respond to reports of Manitobans being injured, or worse, because of mistakes made while operating their ORV.

The Manitoba RCMP would like to remind the public of the following rules and safety tips regarding their ORV usage:

• Learn about the area you will ride in and ensure you carry your cellphone and/or GPS device.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back. It’s always safer to ride in a group of two or more.
• No person under the age of 14 is allowed to operate an ORV unless supervised and accompanied by an adult.
• You must wear your seat belt if your ORV is equipped.
• No person should be operating an ORV without a helmet – and it MUST be securely fastened.
• You cannot carry a passenger unless your ORV is designed for two riders.
• You are not allowed to travel on or thru private property, including farmland and gravel pits.
• Operating an ORV on a roadway is strictly prohibited. Crossing a roadway is permitted if you hold a valid driver’s licence.
• Riders should never operate an ORV while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Every ORV must be equipped with a noise muffler in good working order.
• Carry the proper safety equipment related to the type of ORV you’re operating.

For further information regarding ORV safety, visit: https://www.mpi.mb.ca/off-road-vehicle-safety/