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.

The annual Jr. Lilac Parade hits the streets of Downtown Spokane this Saturday and area middle school marching bands, drill teams and color guards will compete for a spot in next weekend's Armed Forces Torch Light Parade.

The theme for the 61st annual parade is "Swinging into Summer". Groups and bands develop their displays and routines around this theme to compete for the top spots. The parade kicks off at 10am and will start off on Washington just north of Spokane Falls Blvd.

KXLY's Chief Meteorologist Kris Crocker will announce the event. Don't miss the fun celebrating our local children!

Fire District 8 is hosting an open house this weekend for Fire Service Day. The event features fun family activities as well demonstrations and station tours. 

Smokey the Bear will be there to say hi to the kids and the station will be doing two auto extraction demonstrations as well as fire extinguisher demonstrations. Firefighters and EMTs will be teaching CPR classes throughout the day. David's Pizza will be serving lunch from 11am-1pm. 

The open house will be held at Station 81, located at 6117 S. Palouse Highway, just east of the intersection of 57th and the Palouse Highway. Station 81 serves Moran Prairie, Glenrose, Valley View Hills, Hangman Hills, the Ridge at Hangman and Browns Mountain. 

Fire District 8 Open House, Saturday, May 11th, 10:00am-2:00pm.