Safe driving this Easter weekend

It’s the start of the Easter Weekend and many motorists will be on the road making their way to their holiday destinations all around South Africa.

Before you start your journey with your family, take a few minutes to do a simple walk-around inspection and then an engine inspection.

With the walk-around inspection you check the wiper blades, lights and the wheels.

• Wiper blades – see if the material is soft and that it doesn’t have any cracks or has separated from the holding. A good wiper blade will give you good visibility while you are driving through downpours.

• Lights – check if the indicators, headlights and brake lights are working properly. It’s always a good idea to have the headlights checked for the correct alignment to have optimum lighting while driving on the roads and not blinding the driver in the oncoming lane.

• Tyres – check tyres for excessive or uneven wear and that the pressure is correct. Make sure that the tyres are roadworthy and that you and your family will be safe.

In the engine, check fluid levels, belts, pipes and battery connections.

• Fluid levels – check the engine oil, brake fluid, radiator cooler and the windscreen washer fluid levels and top it up to the correct levels. Keep some in the boot of your car for an emergency.

• Belts and pipes – make sure that the belts are not cracking and tearing and that they are sitting correctly in the engine. Check the pipes for any leaks, loose clamps and that they are fitted correctly to the right areas.

• Battery connections – make sure the battery terminals are clear of any corrosive build up. The terminals must be sitting correctly on the battery and that battery must be well mounted to the car without moving around while you drive.Once you are on the road and making your way to your destination, ER24 would like you to take a few things into consideration while driving.

• Obey the road rules at all times.

• Do not overload.

• Have a good rest before embarking on your journey.

• Take a break every 200km or every two hours.

• Do not drink and drive.

• Drive with your headlights on to increase your visibility.

• Always wear your seatbelt and check that everybody else in the car is wearing theirs.

• Be alert to weather conditions.

• Stay within the speed limits at all times – your destination is not going anywhere.

• Try and avoid driving after dark.

• Stay focused at all times, looking out for potentially dangerous drivers and pedestrians alongside the road. If possible avoid them at all times.

• If you are travelling with children, try and keep them entertained with different games and make sure that they have fun while in the car with you.

• Make sure you let your loved ones know where you are staying and that you got there safely.

Most importantly do not rush to the destination but enjoy every moment of the journey.

If you require any emergency medical assistance, do not hesitate to contact ER24 Emergency Medical Care on 084 124.