Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF officials are reminding parents and guardians of children riding on off-highway vehicles (OHV’s) that helmets are required.  The Forest requires children under the age of 18 to wear helmets while riding or operating off highway vehicles (OHV’s), motorcycles, Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV’s).  “We want our visitors to have a great outdoor experience while recreating on the Forest, but we also want them to be safe,” said Forest Supervisor Melany Glossa.

Helmets must meet standards established by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and properly fit the child.  More information about DOT approved helmets can be found on-line at www.dot.gov.  Adults are also encouraged to wear helmets while riding.

The order provides consistency with current State of Montana laws regarding the use of approved helmets for minors on roadways and expands that requirement to include roads, trails and lands within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF.   For more information about State requirements go on-line to www.mt.gov.

Additionally, the ATV Safety Institute recommends that riders younger than 16 be supervised by an adult, and to ride an ATV that is right for their age. For more information about riding ATVs safely go online to: www.atvsafety.org.

Parents and responsible adults of minors may be subject to fines of $100 or more.  For more information contact your local Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF office, or go online to www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf.