With summer in full swing, the Saskatchewan All Terrain Vehicle Association (SATVA) is reminding all ATV enthusiasts to ride smart and gear up, starting with a properly fitted helmet.
“Wearing a helmet is the single most effective way to prevent brain injury and save lives while riding,” said John Meed, General Manager of SATVA. “Too many accidents result in serious head trauma that could have been avoided with the right safety gear.”
Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death during rollovers or collisions by absorbing the impact that would otherwise affect the rider’s skull. They also offer protection from debris, tree branches, and flying gravel, all common on Saskatchewan’s rugged trails.
Helmet use is the law in Saskatchewan. Riders and passengers on any type of ATV, including quads, dirt bikes, side-by-sides and tracked vehicles, must wear a helmet and goggles (if not using a face shield) when operating on public land or private land they do not own.
To ride legally on public land, individuals must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s licence. Youth aged 12 to 15 may operate an ATV if they complete a certified ATV safety course and are supervised by a licensed adult.
SATVA strongly encourages all riders to take part in one of the approved safety courses offered across the province. These programs help both new and experienced riders sharpen their skills and learn key strategies for safe trail navigation.
Fit matters. A helmet should sit level, cover the forehead, and feel snug without causing discomfort. It should not shift when you shake your head, and the inner padding should press gently against the cheeks when adjusted. Helmets that are too loose or tight won’t offer full protection.
Meed also cautions that helmets should be replaced every five years, or immediately after any crash — even if there is no visible damage. Over time, materials degrade, and a compromised helmet may no longer protect as intended.
SATVA recommends full-face or motocross-style helmets, as they provide the best protection for the jaw, chin, and face — areas most vulnerable in a crash.
“Riding should be fun, but it should also be safe,” said Meed. “Wear your helmet. Wear your gear. Ride responsibly.”
As Saskatchewan riders prepare to hit the backcountry this summer, the message is clear: Put your head first. Helmets save lives.