Police "Ride Safe" Campaign

Police in E District are asking the public to consider legal requirements before they purchase motorised vehicles for their children this Christmas. Youth Diversion Officers, in conjunction with Roads Policing, have produced a handy reference leaflet entitled 'Ride Safe' which provides advice and information about the purchase and use of vehicles such as scramblers, go-peds, buzz boards, quads and mini motos.

These leaflets will be distributed throughout the district over the coming weeks. Constable Priestley, Youth Diversion Officer, explained: "We want everyone to be able to enjoy themselves in a safe way and we have produced this leaflet to educate and encourage the safe and responsible use of motorised vehicles. "Certain scramblers, go-peds, buzz boards, quads and mini-motos do not comply with construction and use legislation and vehicle standards so are restricted to off-road use only.

This does not mean they can be driven anywhere off-road. These vehicles should only be used on private land where you have permission and should not be used on pavements, roads, public property or parks; this includes green grass areas and public paths throughout the area.

"If your vehicle is designed for use on a road, it should have the appropriate equipment fitted such as lights and number plates and the driver/rider should be the holder of a suitable driving licence and insurance.

"We hope that the leaflet will give parents and guardians information that they can share with their children about the danger of using quads in a public area. And we would also ask young people to consider how the use of such vehicles may affect other, more vulnerable members of their community."

These vehicles cost a considerable amount and police are also keen that owners take steps to protect their property. When not in use vehicles should be kept under lock and key in a secure shed/outbuilding. If possible, the shed/outbuilding should be covered by the household alarm system or, if there is no electricity supply available, install a separate battery-powered system. A shed/outbuilding door and frame should be as strong as possible so that it can have at least one mortise deadlock fitted. Where this is not possible, fit a good quality hasp and use a good quality closed-shackle padlock too. Always remember to keep your shed/outbuilding locked when left unattended.

You should mark your motorised vehicle with your postcode and house number or initials so that your property is easily identifiable. You may also want to consider fitting a specialist tracking device to your vehicle which will help to locate your equipment should a theft take place.

Constable Priestley concluded: "We want everyone to be able to make the most of their Christmas presents and we hope that the Ride Safe leaflet will help people make informed decisions about what they are buying this year. "If you would like more information or advice please contact your local police on 0845 600 8000."