The holiday season is filled with happiness and celebration, but it can also be a time of danger for road users.

It seems everyone is in a hurry trying to wrap up their shopping and enjoy festive celebrations. But as you’re dashing around town, it’s important to keep road safety top of mind, as the streets are busier and drivers are distracted by their holiday to do lists.

People are urged to be more careful on the roads. Here are a few friendly tips to ensure your Festive season is a safe one:

Don’t drink and drive

• Between 1 October 2010 and 31 May 2011, 15,197 drunk drivers were arrested. Drunk driving is a major contributory factor to road crashes and road deaths in South Africa. If you going to a Christmas party and plan to indulge in a drink or two and get merry, don’t drive. Stay the night or plan a safe alternative to get home  such as a cab or designated driver.

Slow down

• In the rush to get to a Christmas party or do your Christmas shopping before the malls close, you may be tempted to speed. But police presence is greater on the roads both day and night throughout the season, and a speeding ticket and possible accidents are not likely on your holiday wish list.

Wear your seat belt

• Always buckle up. Wearing your seat belt can reduce your risk of dying in a crash by about half.  Also, make sure young passengers are buckled into appropriate safety seats.

Watch for emergency vehicles

• In an emergency, every second counts. When you hear a siren, be sure to pull off to the side of the road to allow the ambulance, police car or fire truck to pass.

Obey road rules

• Always obey the rules of the road. They are there for a reason. Stay within the speed limits at all times.

Carry an Emergency Kit

• Always be prepared, the kit should include items that would come in handy if you are stranded on the side of the road or involved in a vehicle accident.

Pull Off the Road if You Feel Tired

• Please don’t try to drive when your eyes are shutting; you could kill yourself or others if you fall asleep. Have turns driving if there is another licensed person in the vehicle.  Stop regularly to take breaks.

Emergency Numbers to always have with you:

Police Flying Squad: 10111
Ambulance: 10177
Crime Stop: 08600 10111
Cellphone Emergency: 112 (MTN, Vodacom and Cell C)
ER24: 084 124
Netcare: 082 911

Our Partner Arrive Alive   has provided useful information for the Festive Season, be sure to check it out.

• This article first appeared in the Road Cover website.

Photo Courtesy: plusquotes