RCMP and Bylaw Services join forces to improve OHV safety

RCMP and Bylaw Services are stepping up patrols to ensure riders follow the rules to safely operate Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) in the Fort McMurray urban service area.

Earlier this month, Council approved the Off-Highway Vehicle Compliance Strategy.  The strategy expands the Municipality’s current approach to education and awareness by increasing enforcement of activities that impact public and user safety or may negatively impact the quality of life for residents. A dedicated team of enforcement officers will be patrolling areas of concern for unauthorized OHV use, including municipal property and high pedestrian traffic locations.

“Safety is the number one priority, and we are responding to the concerns we’ve heard from residents and trail users,” says Deanne Bergey, Director of Community and Protective Services. “Everyone can enjoy their outdoor activities safely and this requires all of us to follow the rules in place to protect both people and property.”

 Know before you go: OHV checklist

• Check insurance and registration for your OHV and any operators.
• Ensure all users have helmets and any other required personal protective equipment.
• Use of drugs and alcohol is prohibited when operating an OHV.
• Map your route for OHV designated areas.
• Use one of the several municipal staging locations to unload your OHV. The operation of an OHV on municipal roads, greenbelts and trails in the Fort McMurray Urban Service Area, is illegal.  

Follow the rules; keep money in your pocket

Officers will be checking for OHV violations with a broad range of fine amounts.  The following chart outlines the OHV related infractions that have been most observed in our region associated with the Traffic Safety Act, Off-Highway Vehicle Regulation and Off-Highway Vehicle (Urban Service Area) Bylaw:

For questions, please contact Pulse at 780-743-7000, toll-free 1-800-973-9663.

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