Tips to help you be safe this festive season

The festive season is upon us and the national departments have started gearing up to ensure road safety during that time. 

During this time, there is an increase in the traffic flow due to the high number of motorists who will be doing inter-provincial travel. 

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga earlier this month, issued a renewed call for heightened road vigilance among motorists. She underlined the critical importance of exercising caution as the festive season approaches.

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GAUTENG TRANSPORT LAUNCH FESTIVE SEASON ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN

According to the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport, in a statement, road safety campaigns are aimed at reducing road fatalities during the festive period and beyond.

The Gauteng road safety campaign, this year, focuses on the following key areas:

Pedestrians’ safety

Motorist behaviour

Road infrastructure

Law enforcement operations

Public Transport Operators

Gauteng MEC for Road and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said this year’s road safety campaign is under the banner #Fatela. 

“#Fatela means to take care of each other on the roads, be responsible as pedestrians, passengers and transporters collectively.”

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BE CAREFUL THIS FESTIVE SEASON

Meanwhile, the City of Johannesburg’s MMC for Public Safety, Councillor Mgcini Tshwaku has urged residents, visitors and businesses to be alert ahead of the long weekend and festive season.

“The onus of keeping safe, alert and always acting responsibly over the festive season and beyond remains the responsibility of all residents, businesses and visitors to the City.

“I cannot underscore the importance of this, whether you are on your premises, out shopping, at home, on the road or outdoors,” said MMC Tshwaku.

He cautioned against the carrying of large amounts of cash, drinking and driving, unruly behaviour and the use of drugs and weapons, stressing that the aim of the festive season is to be on holiday, not in jail or the morgue.

Some road safety tips:

• Ensure the vehicle is roadworthy before undertaking your trip.

• Do not drive without a valid driver’s licence.

• Do not drink or take illegal substances when driving.

• Driver and passengers must use safety belts.

• Observe the speed limit and reduce speed when it rains.

General Safety

• Ensure windows and doors are closed and locked before going to bed or leaving home.

• Always charge your phone.

• Completely put out braai fires.

• Avoid excessive drinking, quarrels, and drugs.

• Do not cross flooded rivers or roads.

• Be observant of your surroundings.

• Do not be conned into making any financial transactions.

• In case of emergency, call 10111 or 011 375 5911

ALSO READ: Motorists urged to prioritise road safety this festive season

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