Scramblers causing ‘nuisance’ in Iniscarn Forest

Police are reminding the community of the dangers associated with the use of off-road scramblers and quad bikes in public. The reminder comes after a number of reports of scramblers causing a nuisance in the Iniscarn Forest, area of Desertmartin. Constable McCalmont said: “These vehicles are dangerous, they are not toys. Any people involved in using scramblers are asked to be very mindful of their safety and parents of children that are using these vehicles are asked to ensure that they are suitably equipped for them. No-one wants to be dealing with serious injuries, or worse, in their family. “The use of such motorised vehicles as a leisure activity can be both exciting and fun however, if used inappropriately, this can be against the law in certain circumstances. Quads, and some scramblers, do not comply with Construction and Use Regulations and Vehicle Safety Standards and therefore are restricted to ‘off-road’ use only. This does not mean that they can be driven anywhere off-road. These vehicles should only be driven on private land where the landowner has given permission and should not be driven on pavements, roads, public property or parks. Insurance and safety equipment must be complied with as well in order to drive these vehicles legally. “Police have the power to seize these vehicles and will do so in an effort to ensure public safety” said the constable. Anyone who witnesses any illegal activity of this type in their area is asked to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, providing as much detail as possible/ This would include the colour of the vehicle, any distinctive markings and any descriptions of the people using them.