‘Travel safely’ – ER24

The festive season has only just begun and a number of motor vehicle accidents have already occurred.

ER24 pleads with motorists to be patient, calm and alert on the roads this festive season.

If you are travelling:

• Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy. Prior to leaving, have your vehicle checked. There are dealerships that offer free safety checks.
• Check all fluids in the vehicle, rear and front signal lights, wipers, and headlights, tyre wear and tear as well as pressure.
• Make sure you have a spare wheel, full tank of fuel, first aid kit, cell phone, charger and hands-free kit.
• Carry a torch, warning device, fire extinguisher and reflective bib in case you break down
• Plan your route.
• Do not drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Make sure you are rested before leaving and take rest periods. Consider driving in groups and sharing the driving.
• If you have children in the vehicle ensure they are in the appropriate child restraint.
• If you are travelling with pets make sure they are restrained.
• Tow check when towing a trailer or caravan.
• Keep a list of medical details with you. The list should contain your medical aid number, telephone numbers of people to contact in an emergency, your blood group, allergies and medical history.
• If in an accident, stay calm, try and make the scene safe, protect the scene and the injured, call for help and provide first aid to the injured if you are able to.
• Call ER24 on 084 124 in case of emergency.