As part of the zero-tolerance approach being promoted by agencies in South Gloucestershire, any drivers stopped by police officers will be given the opportunity to view a five minute presentation focusing on some of the most common causes of accidents on the road.
These will focus on drink driving, mobile phone use, speeding and the risks of not wearing a seatbelt and will be provided by Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s command vehicle which has the capability to show road safety presentations on a large screen.
Avon Fire & Rescue service group manager Robbie Roberts said: “We see this as a good opportunity to get people really thinking about their behaviour when they get behind the wheel of a car.
“All too often during the Christmas period firefighters have to deal with the tragic consequences of thoughtless actions like drink driving and speeding or just a lapse of concentration.
“Hopefully the work we’re doing through the Safer South Gloucestershire Partnership will give the drivers we meet food for thought which could end up saving their lives and the lives of others.”
Olwen Kelly, community safety and substance misuse manager for Safer South Gloucestershire, said: “I am very pleased that our partners and the licensing department are targeting alcohol related disorder, drink driving and other criminal activities together throughout the Christmas and New Year period.
“We want the law abiding residents of South Gloucestershire to enjoy themselves over the festive period, but for the small minority who intend to go out and commit crime or behave in an anti-social manner – be warned. Expect to be arrested, expect a criminal record, expect to lose your driving license.”
Chief Inspector Peter Warren said: "Working with Avon Fire & Rescue through the Safer South Gloucestershire Partnership gives us a fantastic opportunity to help drivers see the consequences of their actions. Drink driving, not wearing your seat belt and using your mobile phone when driving can have a huge impact on not only the offender, in possibly losing their licence and career, but also their family and friends and other road users. By being able to view these presentations we hope to see a reduction in repeat offences."
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