RCMP are reminding parents of their role in providing proper supervision to off-road vehicle users under the age of 16.

The Mounties say that over the last year the province has seen a “devastating loss of life and serious life-altering injuries” to people who use the machines, including young people, and that in most instances the situations were preventable.

Adults are being encouraged to teach kids about offroad safety and to ensure they are following the laws, including those covering the use of helmets and seatbelts.

They also remind that proper supervision must be given to all riders under the age of 16, noting that when left unsupervised young people often “test the limits” and exceed their ability to operate their vehicle safely.

The supervisor must be at least 18, have a valid driver’s license, and have completed provincial off-road vehicle safety training.

The rider must also be able to both see and be seen by their supervisor at all times, and the adult must be in a position to provide immediate directions to the operator.

Parents are also being reminded that children who are required to use something like a booster seat are also required to do so on off-road vehicles.