Police are urging the community to make the safety and welfare of themselves and their loved ones a top priority this long weekend.
Assistant Commissioner of State Operations Ian Parrott said, “So far this year we have lost 41 people lives on our roads compared to 20 this time last year. This number is too high, and we don’t want to add to it this weekend.”
“Police will be out in force over the long weekend, providing a highly visible presence on our roads, and are encouraging people to make smart choices to ensure the long weekend remains fatality free.”
Operation Safe Holidays will have police targeting high risk behaviours which contribute to death and serious injuries on our roads. Department of Transport traffic cameras, the police helicopter and fixed and mobile speed cameras will also be utilised to help monitor traffic flows and poor behaviour.
“We will be focused on the Fatal Five – speeding, seatbelt use, distracted drivers (particularly by mobile phone use), drivers affected by alcohol or illicit drugs and dangerous road users,” Assistant Commissioner Ian Parrott said.
“Police resources will be in locations targeting these issues to ensure that the high-volume traffic areas are policed appropriately. We know where people take risks and will ensure we have resources to stop them and protect other road users.
“We are expecting the regional areas to be busy with holidaymakers and we encourage these people getting away to be mindful of having rest breaks to ensure fatigue doesn’t become a factor.”
RAA’s Senior Manager of Road Safety Charles Mountain said that South Australia was unfortunately on track for one of the highest number of lives lost on our roads in 20 years.
“The number of lives lost on our roads has spiralled in the first three months of this year so we’ve joined forces with SAPOL and the South Australian Government ahead of the Easter long weekend to reinforce the critical road safety messaging that could help save lives,” Mr Mountain said.
“As thousands of South Australians flock to our regions this weekend, we’re urging everyone to drive to the conditions and make sure they get to their destination and back home safely.
“SAPOL’s Operation Safe Holidays should help deter people from undertaking risky behaviour and individuals need to take responsibility of their actions and understand that poor driving behaviour is putting not only their life at risk, but everyone else on our roads.”
The community should also bear in mind that the Fire Danger Season continues until the end of April, so you must adhere to bushfire safety regulations regarding restrictions for campfires and burn-offs.
For more information about how to abide by fire restrictions and obtain proper permits visit the CFS website: https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/bans_and_ratings/what_can_i_do_what_cant_i_do.jsp
