The risks associated with ATV use, especially by children, is being recognised more on a worldwide basis.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is the latest safety organisation to warn parents about the dangers of children riding adult all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

The call comes on the eve of the 2016 US Memorial Day holiday weekend.

CPSC Chairman Elliot F. Kaye says, that “during the four days of the 2015 Memorial Day holiday weekend, there were at least 13 deaths and an estimated 2,900 emergency room treated injuries associated with ATV usage”.

The CPSC urges the riding community to follow these four safety tips to keep children safe:

• Never let children ride ATVs that are meant for adults.
• Make sure children younger than 16 operate only youth model ATVs appropriate for their age.
• Never let children younger than 6 on an ATV.
• Make sure children wear a helmet and other protective gear that fits appropriately.

Additionally, the CPSC wants all ATV riders to know that hands-on training and following these known safety practices can help keep adults and children safe while using their vehicles:

• Do not drive ATVs on paved roads.
• Do not drive ATVs with a passenger or ride as a passenger.
• Always wear a helmet and other protective gear such as eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.

The advice is consistent wth advice given in Australia by organisations such as the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), and is a further indication that ATV safety is becoming an increasingly greater concern.