Safety is an essential part of the ATV riding experience. If you can't ride safe, then you shouldn't ride at all. Here are some safety tips for riding your ATV while at the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest: First, make sure that you file a trip plan with friends, family, or another responsible adults, and follow it exactly so someone will know where you are and who to contact if something goes wrong. While riding your ATV, take a break every now and then to rest and check your ATVs tires, chain and fuel level just to be on the safe side. As you should with any outdoors adventure, remember to carry a first aid kit, and make sure you know how to tend to minor injuries. Be sure that you know where the nearest hospital is in case of a serious injury, or possible snakebite.
While riding your ATV, remember to fend off flying rocks, twigs, and mud by wearing the necessary boots, gloves, helmets, and eye protection. Be prepared to walk incase your ATV has a mechanical error. Carry some basic tools and spare parts and know how to make field repairs on your ATV, or travel with someone who does. Travel in a group so that if something bad happens, you will have people to help you. Remember to carry a topographic map and compass incase you get lost.
Do not race your ATV on the trails and roads, because there are various unseen dangers, such as ditches and logs, that could seriously injure you if hit head on at a high speed. Drive responsibly and tailor your speed to fit the situation. Do not go close to the areas around waterfalls, and do not try to climb on them. The rocks around the falls are extremely slippery, and fatal accidents have occurred due to this. Remember to follow these safety tips, and have a fun and safe ATV experience!
