MOJAVE, Calif. -- Thousands of people have loaded up their ATV’’s, dirt bike, and other off road vehicles this holiday weekend to get out of town and into some great riding. But while people go to relax and have a good time, they still need to be aware of the very real dangers of off roading.

Earlier this week, two woman were killed after their Rhino off road vehicle rolled down a steep canyon at the popular off road recreation site, Jawbone.

For many families, the holiday weekend was an annual trip to go camp and ride off road, but with so many people sharing some of the best riding spots in the area, comes a real danger for collisions as well as single rider accidents.

Most people agree that safety equipment is a must when riding off road, but Firefighter Captain Tony Plante said you need much more than just safety equipment.

“I think the fire departments major concern is that we would just like people to use common sense. That seems to be the key issue in most of these situations. Yes, safety gear is critical and important, I won’t down play that at all, but common sense really prevails here,” said Plante.

He also stressed the importance of being aware of your surroundings because you can’t assume the next rider is as cautious or experienced as you.