December has come again and the school holidays are upon us. Whether you are planning a trip or staying home visiting all the local attractions, safety is a priority.
1. Before starting on your journey, ensure that everyone in the vehicle has his or her seat belt fastened.
2. Refrain from driving with children on the lap or moving freely in the car, by law every child must be strapped into a car seat that is appropriate while the car is moving.
3. Making use of your headlights during the day is imperative. It ensures that other motorists are able to see you from further away.
4. Remember to make regular stops while travelling. ER24 recommends taking a break every two hours or 200km. Get out of the car, get some fresh air, stretch your legs and take in the view. Children also need regular stops when they can get out of the vehicle and move about.
5. By providing toys, books to read or games to play, children will be less restless and the journey smoother.
6. Do not leave children, elderly people or pets in the car for extended periods of time. Temperatures inside the vehicle can rise above 45 degrees and may result in dehydration, coma or even death.
7. Do not drink alcohol and drive a vehicle, regardless of how short the distance may be. Reaction time is impaired and as a result you may be unable to avoid a car accident.
8. Refrain from using your cellphone while driving. Make use of a hands-free kit or a passenger to take calls or send messages for you. Do not text and drive under any circumstances, no matter how quick you think you will be.
9. Before travelling long distances, take your vehicle in for a safety check-up.
10. An essential part of your journey for you and your passengers is to remain well hydrated so make sure to keep water on hand in the vehicle.
11. Do not forget to have any chronic prescriptions filled before you leave for your holiday. It is also important to remember to take your medication at the right time and ensure you have your prescription filled out before your doctor goes on leave. It is also important to carry an extra script in the event that you have to go to the doctor at your destination.
12. Ensure your children are supervised near swimming pools, dams, rivers and the sea at all times, regardless of whether they can swim or not.
13. Children must be left in the care of an appropriate care-giver while they are at home during the holidays.
14. Staying out of the sun between 11 am and 3 pm is important. Remember to wear sun protection and reapply it regularly.
15. If you come across an accident, you are not required to stop unless you are medically qualified or know first aid. However, do call for assistance from ER24 on 084 124 and provide as much detail as possible. This includes an accurate account of where you are and the land marks around you.
16. No matter where you are (at home or at your destination) make note of the emergency numbers for various services. For a medical emergency contact 084 124 from anywhere in South Africa.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at northsider@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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