Festive season travel: Expert safety tips for West Rand travellers
West Rand residents are advised to follow the Motor Industry Workshop Association's tips to stay safe and avoid breakdowns this festive season.
As West Rand residents gear up for the festive travel season, the roads are set to be busier than usual.
Long distances, high temperatures and heavy traffic all increase the risk of vehicle trouble, so being prepared can make all the difference between a minor setback and a serious emergency.
Dewald Ranft, chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), says a little preparation before you set off can go a long way toward ensuring your journey is safe and stress-free.
“Breakdowns often happen when we least expect them, but they’re far easier to manage if you’ve taken a few simple precautions. Before you head out, make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, your emergency kit is stocked, and that you’ve saved the contact details of a MIWA-accredited workshop near your destination,” he advises.
Pre-trip safety checklist
Before hitting the road, MIWA recommends taking the following steps:
• Service your vehicle: Schedule a professional inspection or service at a MIWA-accredited workshop to ensure brakes, tyres, fluids, and lights are in top condition.
• Check your tyres: Inspect tread depth and pressure (including the spare). Underinflated or worn tyres are a leading cause of holiday breakdowns.
• Top up fluids: Check engine oil, coolant, brake, and windscreen washer fluids.
• Pack smart: Keep a basic emergency kit with jumper cables, reflective triangles, a torch, first aid items, and bottled water.
• Plan your route: Know where the nearest safe stops and fuel stations are located.
What to do if you break down
Even with the best preparation, breakdowns can still happen. Follow these steps to stay safe until help arrives:
• Stay calm and assess the situation. Check for immediate risks like leaking fluids or traffic hazards
• Move to a safe location. If possible, steer the vehicle to the shoulder or a rest area away from moving traffic. Avoid stopping on blind corners or hilltops
• Turn on hazard lights and lock doors to alert other drivers and stay secure, especially after dark
• Place a reflective triangle about 45 metres behind your car to increase visibility
• Call for professional help. Contact your roadside assistance provider or a nearby MIWA-accredited workshop. Be cautious of tow truck scams – call your insurer or broker directly
• If traffic is heavy, stay inside your vehicle with seatbelts fastened until help arrives
• Stay visible at night. Use a torch or reflective vest if you must step outside
• Be cautious with strangers. Decline unsolicited help and wait for official roadside or workshop assistance
• Keep family informed. Let someone know your location and who is assisting you
“Holiday travel should be about making memories, not managing crises. A quick pre-trip check at your local MIWA-accredited workshop and knowing how to handle an emergency safely can help ensure a smoother, safer journey for everyone on the road,” says Ranft.
