FS, AZGFD Plan Off-Highway Vehicle Safety and Compliance Checkpoint Saturday, February 18

Release Date: Feb 13, 2017

PHOENIX, Ariz. — The United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, in conjunction with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting an off-highway vehicle (OHV) safety and compliance checkpoint Feb. 18 on the Mesa Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest.

The checkpoint is being conducted to ensure people are riding safely and responsibly for the public’s safety and to educate all riders and recreationists.

If you plan on using an OHV, here are a few safety tips:

• Always wear a helmet. Helmets are required by law for all riders under the age of 18 regardless of OHV type. However, they are strongly recommended for all riders.
• Wear a seat belt at all times, if equipped. Restraint laws that apply to all motor vehicles also apply to OHVs.
• Only carry the number of passengers recommended by the manufacturer for your vehicle. Often many accidents are the result of too many people riding a machine that was designed for fewer passengers.
• Wear riding goggles, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, riding gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
• Never ride alone.
• Be prepared and equipped with a map, water, a first aid kit, whistle and carry basic tools.
• Stay on designated trails.
• Never operate an OHV while impaired. The same laws apply while operating an OHV as do while operating a motor vehicle. If you are operating an OHV on the street or on public lands under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you could be arrested and will face the same criminal penalties as a DUI on the street. (ARS§28-1381)
• Take an OHV safety education course to learn how to ride safely and responsibly.

Also, as of July 1, 2009, all OHVs in Arizona require a title, license plate and an OHV decal to operate on public and state trust lands. For more information about the OHV use on the Tonto National Forest please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/tonto/recreation/ohv and for more information about AZGFDs OHV program and safety course options, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.