In San Bernardino County, off-highway vehicles (OHVs) offer a thrilling way to explore the vast natural landscapes, but with that excitement comes the responsibility of ensuring safety.
Recognizing this, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has established the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Team, dedicated to educating the public about safe and legal OHV use.
Over the past several years, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department created a specialized OHV team with the sole purpose of promoting safety on the trails. The team is equipped with the resources and personnel needed to educate riders about the laws, rules and regulations that govern off-highway vehicle use in the county. Their goal is simple: To help ensure that OHV enthusiasts enjoy the outdoors safely, responsibly and within the law.
The department’s OHV team works tirelessly to inform riders about key safety measures, such as wearing helmets and seat belts and operating their vehicles only on designated OHV trails and open areas. Many riders are unaware of where these legal riding areas are, and the department is committed to bridging that gap with educational outreach.
Training and community engagement
Over the past seven years, the sheriff’s department has trained approximately 200 members in OHV operations, reinforcing their commitment to safety. Deputies actively participate in OHV operations across the county, ensuring that the message of safe riding reaches all corners of the region. The department also monitors and responds to OHV-related concerns via the OHV-specific email (OHV@sbcsd.org), empowering residents to engage directly with law enforcement regarding any OHV issues or requests.
This two-way communication fosters a sense of community involvement, and the department encourages riders and residents alike to use this tool to report concerns and stay informed.
Discover legal riding areas
While San Bernardino County offers a wealth of outdoor opportunities for OHV enthusiasts, it’s essential to ride within designated areas. The sheriff’s department urges riders to familiarize themselves with legal riding zones. Brochures with maps, laws and regulations are available at local sheriff’s stations, and the department provides various online resources to help riders discover safe and legal OHV opportunities.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department also stresses the importance of understanding local laws and regulations. Before setting out on an adventure, riders should take the time to familiarize themselves with the specific rules governing OHV use in the area they plan to visit. It’s essential to know the rules before hitting the trail, and the Sheriff’s Department is there to help riders navigate these guidelines.
OHV safety guidelines
The sheriff’s department encourages everyone who plans to operate an OHV to keep these key safety tips in mind:
• Learn the rules: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations before heading out. Always check the destination’s webpage and take a safety course when available.
• Scout your route: Different trails present different challenges. Understand the terrain, so you’re prepared for the ride.
• Be prepared: Ensure you have essential supplies such as a first aid kit, extra water and food, maps, a tool kit and extra fuel.
• File a riding plan: In areas with limited or no cell service, inform someone of your riding plans and ask them to notify local law enforcement if you don’t return on time.
• Wear required safety equipment: Always use protective gear, including a properly fitted helmet.
• Never ride alone: Always ride with at least one other person. If one rider is injured, the other can stay with them while getting help.
• Tread lightly: Ride only on designated trails, and check trail conditions before setting out. Remember that wildlife has the right of way.
• Know your limits: Understand your riding abilities and stay within your skill level. Never operate an OHV under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Recreate safely: If your vehicle is disabled, it’s often safer to stay with the vehicle and wait for help. Always inform someone about your location and expected return time.
- Fire safety: Avoid driving through tall grass or brush to reduce the risk of fires.
With over 20,000 square miles to patrol, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department understands the vastness of the area and the importance of keeping OHV activities safe. The department has cleared and defended legal OHV areas to ensure that enthusiasts can enjoy the outdoors without compromising safety.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the department continuously updates its educational materials, training and safety presentations and guidelines to reflect the ever-changing landscape of OHV use in the county. Riders are encouraged to take advantage of the resources provided, such as the department’s OHV brochure, which is available at local sheriff’s stations.
For more information about OHV regulations, legal riding areas and safety tips, visit the department’s website or stop by your local sheriff’s station. Together, we can promote safe and responsible OHV riding in San Bernardino County.
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