MEARS, Mich. — New signs have been installed at Silver Lake State Park to "keep people thinking about safety," according to Park Manager Jody Johnston.
Silver Lake State Park has partnered with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' Ride Right Campaign to promote safety in the ORV area of the park.
The DNR said the park's 450-acre scramble area has different terrain from the state's more traditional ORV trails and routes, so it's important for riders to keep these safety tips in mind:
- “Keep your head on a swivel” – make a concerted effort to scan and observe in all directions while on the dunes.
- Always practice situational awareness – be aware of the potential hazards that could affect you and other riders.
- Know what is beyond the crest of a hill before traveling up and over it.
- Always operate within your abilities and your vehicle’s capabilities.
- Keep your speed in check.
- Keep your wheels on the ground.
- If you plan to stop/park, choose spots where you are visible 360 degrees (avoid blind spots).
- Don’t “show off” for friends and family members or spectators.
- Stay inside your vehicle while in the ORV area.
- Be aware of any dune-riding fatigue you may experience – most crashes and incidents on the dunes occur later in the day.
The banners for the campaign are 4 feet by 8 feet and can be found at the front gate entrance of the park and along the sides of the sand dune entrance ramp.
The signs say:
There will also be safety signs for spectators placed in the ORV area near where people drag race.
These signs say:
The DNR said that based on 2023 statewide ORV crash data, 93% of ORV fatalities could have been prevented.
Over the summer, there were two serious crashes at Silver Lake Sand Dunes.
In late May, there was a crash that left a mother of two dead.
Three months later in early August, a crash between a dirt bike and a Jeep sent a man flying into the air. Despite serious injuries, Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast said the dirt bike rider is expected to recover.
Officials are hoping the Ride Right Campaign and the signs encourage riders to keep safety at the tops of their minds as they enjoy the dunes.
"We want everyone to have an enjoyable time and be able to go home safe at the end of each day," Johnston said.
