Nothing beats teaching them young and apparently that is what Lacache Middle School fifth-graders got to learn about off-road vehicle safety. Local officials and an industry representative gave children step-by-step instructions for operating all-terrain vehicles. ATVs include four-wheelers, dirt bikes, go-carts, golf carts and motorized scooters.

“When you ride a motorcycle, an ATV or a dirt bike when you’re young, you have to have your protective gear on,” said John Soileau, general manager at Performance Suzuki in Houma.

Complete protective gear includes a helmet, goggles, long-sleeved shirts, long pants and footwear like boots that cover riders’ ankles. Other simple steps can prevent trouble when off-road. Checking the ATV before riding - inspecting tire inflation, brakes and fuel tank - can ensure a safe trip. ATV users also should avoid public roads and paved surfaces.

The presentation was organized by the Safe Communities program of South Central Planning and Development, a Gray-based government-advisory agency. Alicia Toups, executive director of the local Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council, helped present the information.

(Source) Daily Comet

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