Police have launched a crackdown on quad bikes following a string of complaints from motorists and pedestrians.

Legal action will be taken against people caught riding them on highways and in residential areas and offenders also risk having them confiscated, warned General Directorate of Traffic traffic culture director Major Moosa Al Dossary.

He said quad bike owners must ensure they stay off Bahrain's roads and away from residential areas.

"The owner of a quad bike is responsible for the safety of the rider, making sure the rider is of the correct age and that they follow correct and legal driving practices," said Major Al Dossary.

"The owner of the vehicle has to inform the traffic department of any change of ownership.

"If the user wants to transport a quad bike, then they must use a quad bike trailer."

Major Al Dossary said the crackdown had been launched based on orders from General Directorate of Traffic acting director-general Lieutenant-Colonel Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Sabah Al Khalifa.

No figures were available about quad bike accidents, but Bahrainis Mohammed Adel Ilyasi, 19, and Laila Hassan Al Kalibi, 27, died when their quad bike collided with a car in Sakhir in January last year.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry is stepping up inspections of public and private swimming pools across Bahrain to ensure they are abiding by health and safety procedures.

Pools are undergoing chemical testing to check if their PH levels are to standard and chlorine levels are sufficient to act as a disinfectant, but not high enough to cause irritation. Inspectors are also ensuring each swimming facility has the proper health and safety equipment. In addition, lifeguards will undergo a refresher course on correct swimming practices and first aid to ensure they can respond in an emergency.