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Auburn, Sept. 7---All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have become popular for work and recreation. They are prevalent in agriculture, business, industry and government and promise new adventures to young and old riders alike.

Unfortunately, more than 90,000 serious injuries and 120 deaths are reported annually from ATV use. Most of these injuries and deaths are attributed to improper use of ATVs and nearly 50 percent of the injuries and fatalities are children under 16.

An ATV is not a toy and children should not be permitted to operate one without specialized training, says Extension 4-H Program Specialist Dr. Tony Cook.

"A hands-on training course is recommended for all ATV operators. Inexperienced riders in their first month of using an ATV have 13 times the average risk of injury. Beginning riders should receive a training course from a qualified instructor. Basic maneuvers taught in training courses should be practiced regularly on a safe terrain." Cook says.

Adequate physical size and strength, emotional maturity, ability to assess a situation and take appropriate action, and good motor skills are important factors for youth operating motorized vehicles.

When children are allowed to operate an ATV, it should be the appropriate size. ATVs with an engine size of 77 cc to 90 cc should be operated by people at least 12 years old. ATVs with engines greater than 90 cc should only be operated by people 16 and older.

ATVs are designed for off-road use only. They should never be operated on

paved surfaces or public roads. Almost 10 percent of the injuries and more than 25 percent of the deaths from ATVs have occurred while someone was operating an ATV on paved roads. Alcohol or drugs should never be used before or during the operation of ATVs.

Cook says protective gear is important for safe ATV operation. A safety helmet that meets federal standards is the best protection an operator can have. Helmets could have saved the lives of about 25 percent of those who died from head injuries in ATV-related accidents. Helmets should fit snugly and be securely fastened. Riders should also wear a face shield or goggles free from scratches and made of polycarbonate. Sunglasses do not provide adequate protection.

Goggles should be securely fastened and well-ventilated to prevent fogging. High- top boots with low heels, gloves, sturdy jackets and pants also are standard attire. While protection from the cold is important, do not wear scarves or loose clothing because of potential entanglement with moving parts.

Cook reminds riders that ATVs are designed for one operator and no passengers. Adding an extra passenger can seriously impair a rider's ability to shift weight, which helps steer and control the ATV.

Loss of vehicle control causes most accidents, says Cook. Most accidents occur when the operator encounters a change of terrain or swerves to avoid an obstacle such as a rock or ditch. It causes an abrupt change of balance and loss of control.

Riders shouldn't show off and should keep their speed under control. Speeding and stunts (wheelies, jumps, etc.) are common among young operators, especially when peer pressure is involved. Stunt riding increases a rider's risk of losing control and having a serious accident.

SOURCE: Dr. Tony Cook, 4-H Program Specialist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (334) 844-2233