Media release

Friday, 20 July 2012

Just scraping the surface

In an effort to get the word out about road safety this winter Council’s Community Development team as part of Safe Hutt Valley is giving away free windscreen ice scrapers to the community.

UPPER HUTT, Wellington NZ, 20 JUL 2012—Upper Hutt City Council’s Jessica Setu is urging motorists to take extreme care and drive to the conditions. “At this time of year, road conditions can change suddenly. The weather can transition from a clear frosty morning to very heavy rain in a short space of time. Be prepared for the unexpected and drive to the conditions to ensure you stay safe.” Windscreen ice scrapers are a way to get the word out while giving drivers a practical tool. Drivers must make sure they clear all their vehicle windows of ice and condensation before driving. It is an offence to drive with an obscured windscreen, so take the time to clear them to minimise the possibility of a crash.

In conjunction with Safe Hutt Valley, Upper Hutt City Council will be freely distributing the windscreen ice scrapers to cars parked in the CBD commuter car park this week. The ice scrapers are also available for free from the Upper Hutt City Council reception while stocks last. For more information on road safety, go to www.upperhuttcity.com/roadsafety and download a copy the winter road safety brochure. This initiative is based off a campaign run by Taupo District Council.

Motorists are advised to reduce their speed, increase following distances, drive with headlights on and be aware of their environment. “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” says Ms Setu. Early commuters should be particularly aware that dangerous frosty roads are worse at daybreak. Shaded areas can prevent patches of ice from thawing until later in the day. Statistics show that driving with headlights on significantly increases a vehicle’s visibility to other road users and results in a marked reduction in road crashes.

Road Safety Tips:

• If possible, avoid travelling during night time, early morning and when severe weather is forecast. • Dress for the conditions, carry warm clothes, ensure your cellphone is charged and keep a survival kit in your vehicle—including warm blankets and food. • Ensure your car is road worthy; check your tyres have adequate tread depth. • Avoid sudden braking or turning movements and accelerate smoothly. • Ice on the roads is not always easy to see, so be prepared at all times for black ice.

ends

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