THE Department of Health’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) urges all motorists and road users to be extremely cautious on the roads, due to the current inclement weather.
“There is no negotiation with regard to road safety, all the traffic laws need to be obeyed. They are intended for our safety,” said EMS media liaison officer, Robert Mckenzie.
To stay alive and safe, motorists and the public are advised to follow these tips:
* Do not consume alcohol and drive a vehicle or walk on the road. The link between alcohol consumption and collisions has been proven beyond doubt and it is not safe to drive or walk on the road when under the influence of alcohol.
* Do not drive while tired; not only is the general driving performance negatively affected when tired, due to a decrease in alertness and reaction times, but falling asleep for an instant can have catastrophic effects. Before long trips, make sure your well-rested and take regular breaks along the route, even if you’re not feeling tired.
* A safe following distance needs to be maintained. In this regard, take the prevailing road conditions and the speed being travelled into consideration. Enough space needs to be maintained between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, so that if there is an incident, you are able to stop before colliding into the car in front of you.
* All occupants in a vehicle need to wear seatbelts, not only is it law but the use of seat belts has been proven to dramatically reduce injury and fatality rates after collisions.
* Pedestrians must walk on the side of the road and be consciously aware of vehicles. Don’t walk side by side and wear light-coloured clothing.
“Road safety is our collective responsibility as road users and driving cautiously and obeying the traffic laws is crucial . It is also practical to save emergency numbers on your cellphone in case you are involved in or come across an emergency. Also teach your children about these numbers and how to use them.”
