The BLM Emphasizes OHV Safety Over Three-Day Weekend

As Americans take advantage of the last holiday of summer, the rate of accidents –on the highway, in recreation areas, and on remote public lands – will rise.  Off-highway vehicle (OHV) riders especially need to keep safety foremost in their activities.  The best ending to an exciting outdoor adventure is returning home in good shape. 

As recreational use of public lands increases, the incidence of alcohol-related vehicle accidents and fatalities on public lands rises.  Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Law Enforcement staff work cooperatively with municipal, county and state law enforcement authorities to ensure that recreation on public lands remains safe as possible, particularly in areas developed for OHV recreation.  Therefore, Law enforcement officers will make it a priority to look out for people who are operating motorized vehicles while under the influence of alcohol.

“While we want the public to enjoy the beauty and excitement of the outdoors on public lands, our first concern is for the safety of the public and our BLM employees.  That is why we have a zero tolerance policy for motor vehicle alcohol related offences,” said BLM Colorado State Director Ron Wenker.  “Operating a motorized vehicle while under the influence of alcohol jeopardizes everyone’s ability to enjoy the public lands safely.”

The same qualities that make public lands attractive for recreation – locations off the beaten path – also heighten the need for preventive safety measures.  Give your vehicle and personal gear a safety inspection before your trip.  Make sure your personal helmet and eye protection fit properly – and wear them!  Carry a map of the area you intend to explore and know which areas are open for OHV use. 

As a user of public lands, you have a significant responsibility to be aware of your own physical limitations as well as all natural hazards involved with riding Off-Highway Vehicles.

Travel with a companion.  Riding solo in an area far from emergency medical service can turn a minor accident into a fatal one.  Let someone know where you are going and when you will return, in case you and your companion are both disabled.

The BLM encourages people to come out and play – enjoy your public lands this Labor Day Weekend.  Just be sure to play in a safe manner that will create a clean and fun environment for all outdoor enthusiasts.  Enjoy fresh air, rigorous physical exercise and excitement, but don’t let this be your last ride.

In Colorado the BLM manages 8.4 million acres of public lands, along with 27 million acres of mineral estate.  Much of this land is concentrated in the Western portion of the State.  BLM lands in Colorado range from alpine tundra, colorful canyons and mesas in the southwest, to rolling sagecovered hills in the northwest.  These lands are managed for a multitude of uses, including: recreation, mining, wildlife habitat and livestock grazing.

— BLM —

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