Mike Pearson reminds listeners how important it is to be safe when operating your ATV's and UTV's for fun and utilizing tool on the farm.

A week hasn't gone by this summer where an accident hasn't occurred involving a four wheeler or ATV.

In 2019, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 295 people killed on ATV's-- a number of which the Academy of Pediatrics says has increased since COVID.

Make sure the vehicle is prepared for the task when preparing to go for a ride. Check tIres to make sure they are properly inflated. Ensure you have mirrors and that all of the lights are working.

A report shows 126,000 people have been injured as a result of riding ATV's-- many of those injuries were the result of not being prepared.

Before heading out for a ride, make sure you are wearing goggles, have long sleeves on your shirt and long pants to decrease injuries.

Don't just assume you can ride on the road even if your state allows them. Be sure you have a valid driver's license, follow the local and state laws, ride with in your abilities-- and most of all always be prepared.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, a farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness.