Scraping the surface

Drivers are being advised to be aware of the dangers when on the road this winter. Upper Hutt City Council’s Community Development team is giving away free windscreen ice scrapers to the community as part of a Safe Hutt Valley initiative.

UPPER HUTT, Wellington NZ, 16 MAY 2014—Given the popularity in previous years, and to encourage key messages of ‘drive safe, drive to the road conditions,’ Upper Hutt City Council will continue to provide free windscreen ice scrapers to drivers.

Council’s Community Development Advisor, Melanie Baxter is urging motorists to take extreme care and drive to the conditions. “Driving too fast for the conditions is a leading cause of serious injuries in road crashes. At this time of year, road conditions can change suddenly. Be prepared for the unexpected and drive to the conditions to ensure you stay safe.”

The windscreen ice scrapers are a practical tool for drivers as well as a way to keep the safety message strong. “Drivers must make sure they clear all their vehicle windows of ice and condensation before driving. It’s an offence to drive with an obscured windscreen, so take the time to clear them to minimise the possibility of a crash,” says Mrs Baxter. “It takes around two seconds to complete an emergency stop in good weather, but it can take at least four seconds, and twice the distance, in poor conditions.”

Motorists are advised to reduce their speed, increase following distances, drive with headlights on, and be aware of their environment.

The windscreen ice scrapers are available for free from Upper Hutt City Council reception while stocks last, as well as from local service stations. For more information on road safety, download a copy of the winter road safety brochure from www.upperhuttcity.com/roadsafety

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