Alaska Safe Riders: Don't forget your pre-ride inspection

Alaska Safe Riders here bringing you all-purpose vehicle safety messages thanks to the MEA Charitable Foundation and your hometown newspaper.

Make sure you always do a quick pre-ride inspection by checking your tires, brakes, fuel, lights and throttle before you set out for adventure. In remote Alaska, breakdowns can become serious emergencies. A five-minute pre-ride inspection can save your life or at minimum, a lot of stress.

Hatcher Pass in the Mat-Su Valley offers more than 25 miles of hiking and riding trails. These trails can be accessed via the Willow Fishhook or Palmer-Fishhook roads. You’ll get the chance to check out the historic Independence Mine, great alpine scenery, plus steep, rocky trails and amazing views.

These all-purpose vehicle trails are typically only open between July and September due to snow levels. Make sure you stick to legal off-highway vehicle routes. You can get more details from the Alaska Division of Parks.

This area is great for those with moderate to advanced skill levels.

You’ll find online training courses along with a host of other training tips and opportunities at alaskasaferiders.org.

That’s it for this week. Remember, always ride smart. Ride safe. Wear a helmet. And be sure to check back next week for more trail and safety tips right here.