The long-awaited December holidays are in full swing and whatever your intentions, be it going away on holiday, visiting local attractions or staying at home, ER24 is urging everyone to celebrate with safety in mind.
If you are driving to your destination, remember the following:
• Buckle up and ensure children in the vehicle are appropriately restrained. If you are travelling with pets make sure they are restrained.
• Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Ensure you have a spare wheel, first aid kit, torch, reflective bib and fire extinguisher in the vehicle.
• Plan your route. It is a good idea to take note of all filling stations, police stations and hospitals.
• Take regular breaks during your drive. If there is another person in the vehicle who is licensed to drive, rather share the driving. Be alert at all times and do not speed. Alter your speed according to the environment you are in.
• Do not drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Keep a list of telephone numbers of people to contact as well as your medical details and history (medical aid number, blood group and allergies for example).
• Let people you trust know where you are going and when they can expect you back.
• If you do happen to come across an accident, ensure it’s safe to stop before doing so. Ensure your vehicle is parked a safe enough distance a way (usually more than 50 metres) and have warning triangles/ hazard lights to warn other motorists of the hazard. Removing people from vehicles is best left up to the experts, unless a life threatening situation exists. Keep car accident victims calm until experts arrive.
