Police have been taking the opportunity to talk to road users about fatigue and distractions while feeding them barbecue food and coffee.

On Friday 7 December Waitaki Police set up a checkpoint at Maheno garage, near Oamaru, where passing traffic was handed goody bags.

The bags contained water, lollies, wristbands, tyre gauges, and pamphlets of information about driver fatigue and distractions.

An opportunity to stop for a barbecue and coffee was also on offer for drivers who needed a rest, or wanted to chat with local Police.

“We joined up with Waitaki Road Safe and various community organisations and people,” says Senior Sergeant Jason McCoy, Sub-area Supervisor, Response Waitaki.

“It was a great opportunity to chat with drivers about the real dangers of fatigue and distractions.

While the goody bags and barbecue were a good way of engaging with drivers, Senior Sergeant McCoy says the message is the important thing to take away.

“The message is clear: Fatigued drivers’ reactions are much slower, their ability to concentrate is reduced, and it takes longer to interpret and understand the traffic situation,” says Senior Sergeant McCoy.

“Some people think rolling the window down or increasing the radio volume will wake them up, but those just mask the tiredness they don’t reduce it.”

Police advises the following to avoid fatigue:

• Have a good night’s sleep if driving the next day

• Share the driving when possible, making sure you’re fully awake before driving

• Take plenty of breaks if driving long distances

For more tips and information on avoiding driver fatigue visit www.nzta.govt.nz/safety/driving-safely/fatigue/

ENDS

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