In last two weeks Eastern Washington and North Idaho have seen over five ATV accidents including one death in the LC Valley last week. While ATV riding is fun, it's important to learn proper technique to remain safe.

“We think it takes special skills to ride an ATV,” says Dale Stevens, a licensed ATV safety instructor with the ATV Safety Institute. ASI is a non-profit sponsored by the all the major ATV manufacturers. Instructors like Stevens teach regular safety classes to educate riders on proper technique, safety skills and the responsibilities that come with owning and riding ATVs.

After taking his course many riders tell Stevens that they didn't know what a work out riding is and that they expected it to be easier. Stevens says that a lot of people expect ATVs to be like riding a couch on wheels but it that it takes a lot of physical effort and knowledge of how ATVs operate to remain safe while riding.

Moses Lake School District has closed Longview Elementary School for tomorrow after an outbreak of a stomach-flu like viral sickness. 

Nearly 25 percent of the students are sick right now and the Grant County Health District says that it's likely more will start experiencing symptoms. GCHD wants people experiencing fever, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting to stay home for a minimum of 48 hours because norovirus-like illness are very infectious. 

The best way to avoid getting sick is to wash your hands with soap and hot water often if you are sick or are caring for someone who is. GCHD also suggests disinfecting any surfaces that may be contaminated especially those in bathrooms. Hand sanitizers should not be used as a substitute for soap and water. 

The health district is working closely with the Moses Lake School District to clean and disinfect Longview Elementary School. Is it unknown when classes will resume. 

If you have questions or concerns please contact the Grant County Health District Moses Lake Office at (509) 766-7960