As West Rand residents are gearing up to spend the festive season with their families and friends it is important to take care of yourself and your family.

For this reason the police have released safety tips for when you go on a road trip.

• Buckle up.
• Don’t drink and drive.
• Keep a safe following distance.
• Do not use up your energy on activities, which will increase your fatigue.
• Get enough sleep the night before, at least six hours.
• Do not travel when you are emotional or stressed out.
• Plan your trip, the route you will travel and where you will stop and rest overnight.
• Make sure your car is roadworthy.
• Make sure you have a spare wheel and that it is in good condition, and a jack.
• Make sure your luggage is in the boot and that it is closed properly.
• Stop every two hours, taking 15-minute breaks.
• Avoid driving between 1am and 5am.
• If you feel tired or restless, pull over at a safe place such as a filling station or camping site and rest for a little while.