Don’t repeat last year’s Easter deaths – be safe on the road

Long weekends and the Easter holidays are almost here and that means a number of people will be on the roads again travelling to their holiday destinations.

A number of lives were lost in the weekend prior to, as well as during, the Easter weekend last year.

ER24 is urging motorists to keep this in mind and to drive cautiously.

Remember that speed and driving while under the influence of liquor are two of the most common reasons for transport-related incidents.

Refrain from speeding and do not drive if you plan on drinking liquor.

Below are further tips:

• Conduct a safety check on your vehicle prior to leaving.

• Ensure your tyres are in good condition.

• Make sure you have a tyre jack, spare wheel, fire extinguisher and first aid kit in your vehicle.

• Check weather and traffic reports.

• Ensure that you are well rested, take regular breaks and share the driving if possible.

• Avoid texting and driving as well as talking on your cellular phone while driving.

• Keep a safe following distance and avoid road rage.

• Ensure that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up and that children are appropriately restrained.

• Keep a list of medical details with you, which should contain your medical aid number, telephone numbers of people to contact in an emergency, your blood group, allergies and medical history.

Call ER24 on 084 124 in case of a medical emergency.