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Injury Prevention & Safety
Information for Families

person on atv

ATVs are for adults. Children under 16 shouldn't operate any size of ATV.

As the winter gives way to warmer weather, Albertans are heading out to enjoy hiking, biking, and even quad-ing in the sun. While quads may be thrilling, keep in mind that they pose significant risk, especially to children less than 16 years of age, who do not yet have the strength, skills or judgment needed to operate a quad safely. To protect children less than 16 years of age, parents and caregivers are advised to ensure these children do not drive or ride in a quad anytime, anywhere, any size.

ATV / Quad Safety

Albertans 16 years of age and older are urged to take the following precautions to ensure their ATV excursions are as safe as possible:

  • Get trained: Before you hit the trails, get formal hands-on training from a recognized/trained ATV instructor. Don’t be shy about refreshing your training seasonally.
  • Wear the gear: Always wear a helmet. Not only is it the law when riding on public land, a helmet worn every ride can save your life.
  • Look first: Be sure you’re aware of the weather forecast, fire outlook/potential, and any hazards (geographical, animal or human) or risks that the trail(s) could pose. Ensure your ATV is equipped with an appropriate head lamp.
  • Buckle up: Be sure you’re fastened in properly and that all gear and equipment (including your ATV restraints) are in proper working condition before you hit the trails.
  • Drive sober: Don’t drink or do drugs before or while operating an ATV.

Learn more about All-terrain vehicle safety by visiting Parachute Canada 

Anyone in Alberta with a health concern can dial 811 or visit Health Link, Health Advice 24/7, for more information.

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Smart Risk Approach

The Alberta Health Services Provincial Injury Prevention Program (PIPP) supports a smart risk approach to injury prevention.

Risk is a part of life. While you can’t make all risks go away, you can manage most of them.

Learn more, visit MyHealth.Alberta.ca - Smart Risk Approach.