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Consumer Product Safety Commission Commends ATV Distributors

10 December 1998

Consumer Product Safety Commission Commends Kawasaki and Other ATV Distributors for Voluntary Actions

    IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 9 -- The Consumer Product Safety
Commission today announced that a resolution was passed recognizing several
manufacturers of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for independent efforts "...which
the Commission believes will provide safety benefits to consumers."
    The voluntary activities lauded by the CPSC were undertaken by the
companies following the mandated efforts implemented during the prior ten-year
period.  Some of the programs which are being recognized -- such as hands-on
vehicle training with cash incentives for first-time purchasers -- were part
of the CPSC-approved plan in effect since 1988.
    According to Roger Hagie, Director of Public Affairs at Kawasaki Motors
Corp., U.S.A., some of the other components planned for the industry's
information and education program are:  distribution of a specially-produced
CD-ROM with each new ATV, production of educational materials to be provided
to schools and public libraries, schoolroom teaching aids, advertising that
focuses on ATV safety information, direct mail, poster distribution, and
website integration of ATV information.
    The industry estimates that expenditures over the next three years will
exceed six million dollars.
    "Kawasaki is committed to maintaining a high level of awareness on the
part of the consumer regarding the proper use of ATVs," Hagie said.
    "We're pleased that the CPSC has recognized the industry's communications
efforts, and we intend to continue to reach potential purchasers with these
important messages," continued Hagie.
    Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., has headquarters in Irvine and also
distributes motorcycles, JET SKI(R) personal watercraft, utility vehicles,
portable power generators, small engines, and hand-held power products.