With long summer days take an extra step in keeping yourself and others safe.

 

Tasman Emergency Services tackling road safety together

December 2023

Police, Hato Hone St John, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand want everyone to enjoy the summer period but remind the public to take an extra step in keeping yourself and others safe.

With long summer days, and people travelling around our beautiful region, people are asked to take care with their day-to-day movements.

Inspector Hamish Chapman, Road Policing Manager in Tasman urges extra caution when on the road, as a driver and passenger.

“We ask that motorists take extra steps to mitigate risks whilst driving. Wearing your seatbelts, driving to the conditions, drive fresh and follow speed limits.”

Speed is often a behaviour overlooked by drivers when travelling but it can single-handedly be the difference from walking away from a crash, to not surviving, less speed means less harm.

“Roads will see more traffic, so please be patient, whether you are driving down the road or across the country. Your life is not worth risking to arrive at your destination slightly earlier than scheduled.

“Drivers can expect to see more checkpoints throughout summer. If you are drinking, make sure you have a sober driver, there is no excuses for getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.”

Hato Hone St John Area Operations Manager Anne-Maree Harris wants the public to step up and take more responsibility for their safety at some of this summer’s hotspots.

“The Tasman District is well known for its beautiful lakes and waterways so please take care in and around the water. If you are boating, wear a correctly fitted life jacket, and ensure if you are swimming at a beach or river, children should be supervised at all times.”

It is also important that you let people know your plans in case of an emergency.

“Whether you are on land or the water, please let someone know where you are planning to go, as well as the relevant times. If you do need help, emergency services will be able to locate you a lot easier.”

Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s Community Risk Manager in Nelson Marlborough, Steve Trigg, is urging people to head to checkitsalright.nz this summer.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re heading away these holidays or spending time with family at home, people should jump online and check it’s alright to burn.

“Our simple 3-step tool tells you whether you can light your fire or do your outdoor work safely, what the fire risk is and what you should do to stay safe.

“Whether you’re firing up the pizza oven or the charcoal barbecue, or using a chainsaw or a mower, it’s important you check first and make sure you are keeping safe.

“The best way to stop a fire is to not start one in the first place.”

Don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun by seeking shade during the hottest part of the day, regularly reapplying sunscreen, and staying hydrated throughout our long summer’s days.

If you are planning to head along to a party or festival, check in with your mates. Make sure you have a plan to get there and back safely, make sure your phone is charged, look out for one another, and always have a backup plan. 

Keeping each other safe is everybody’s responsibility, if you see anything that requires urgent emergency response, please call 111.

Police, Hato Hone St John, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.