WUPTA holds youth ORV safety class

IRONWOOD - Fourteen youth attended a free off-road vehicle safety class Saturday through the Western Upper Peninsula Trail Authority.

The class, held at Gogebic Community College, covered a variety of topics to keep ORV operators safe.

Instructors for the class included WUPTA members Ross and Kim Kolesar and Gogebic County Sheriff's Department deputy Brandon Lyons. After the class was completed, participants took a 50-question test regarding different ORV safety practices. If students passed, they were awarded certificates.

Some of the tips students learned included always checking the owner's manual before taking a vehicle out on the road; wearing lights or bright colors to make operators visible and wearing protective gear like helmets, goggles and a face shield.

"Speed is definitely a major cause of accidents," instructor Kim Kolesar said. "So it's important to be responsible drivers."

Students were also taught safe riding techniques, pre-ride safety inspections, the risks of riding, laws and requirements, ways to protect the environment and good trail etiquette.

All ORV operators under age 16 are required to possess a valid safety training certificate when operating their vehicles.

For more information, call 906-932-4519.