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.

May is Foster Parent Appreciation Month, a special time to recognize a group of people who sacrifice so much for children.

The city of Spokane and some businesses are honoring those who have offered their hearts, home, and time over the past year.

Tomato Street kicked off the celebration by offering free meals to foster kids. The Davenport Hotel is giving a special rate to foster families a weekend in May for Foster Parent Appreciation Month. Arby's is giving foster families a 1/2 off coupon for the entire family to go to dinner at a Spokane Arby's.

To see other events to celebrate what foster parents do for children everyday, check out the Foster Parent Association Facebook Page.

Did you know foster parents:

• may be asked to take a child or children at any hour of the day or night, with little notice or information?