Parents and guardians are being urged by the Smithers RCMP to speak with their children about off-road vehicle safety.
This comes after a recent uptick in complaints about unsafe quad use by youth in the Telkwa area.
Mounties say the young riders were seen operating without helmets and on roadways where they are prohibited.
Police added in several instances, riders appeared to be underage, unlicensed, and without any safety equipment.
“These machines are powerful, and without the proper training, gear, or supervision, the risks are very real,” said Acting Seargeant Jim Preston.
RCMP members will be increasing patrols in the area and issuing tickets for infractions under the Off-Road Vehicle Act and Motor Vehicle Act when necessary.
Some of the most common offences according to Mounties include:
- No insurance
- Operating without an approved helmet
- Riding on public roads or highways
- Allowing a youth to operate unsupervised
- Failing to display proper licence plates
Police are also reminding off-road vehicle users to have an approved spark arrestor installed when operating on forested land during wildfire season.
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