New Zealand is an adventurous playground in winter, and many will be keen to explore the great outdoors this Queen’s Birthday weekend. While Police want everyone to enjoy themselves, they ask that people put safety first when planning outdoor activities this long weekend.
“Many will be looking to get away for the long weekend, and with the lower temperatures and unpredictable weather, more planning is needed when driving in winter conditions and spending time outdoors.” says Superintendent Steve Greally, National Manager: Road Policing.
“It only takes a split second to lose control of a vehicle in wet or icy conditions. Our roads are unique, they are challenging and they are demanding. It’s crucial that motorists drive at the right speed for the road and the conditions.”
Travelling too fast for the conditions remains a contributing factor in around a third of all fatal crashes.
Police will have a highly visible and active presence on the road during Queen’s Birthday weekend, focusing on high risk driving behaviour using a mixture of prevention and enforcement activities.
As per previous long holiday weekends, speed cameras will be positioned in high risk crash areas and set to enforce a reduced speed threshold of 4km/h over Queen’s Birthday weekend.
Police officers will use their discretion and will be targeting those not taking the driving conditions into consideration. They will also be focusing on seat belt non-compliance, cell phone use, and driving while impaired.
Outdoor safety
If heading to a remote location this Queen’s Birthday weekend, LandSAR would like people to follow the outdoor safety code to ensure that they and their loved ones remain safe:
The safety code includes the following actions:
· Plan your trip. Seek local knowledge and plan the route you will take and the amount of time you can reasonably expect it to take.
· Tell someone. Tell someone your plans and leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned.
· Be aware of the weather. New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the forecast and expect weather changes.
· Know your limits. Challenge yourself within your physical limits and experience. Learn safe ways of rescuing others without putting yourself in danger.
· Take sufficient supplies. Make sure you have enough food, clothing, equipment and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication.
Police are also asking hunters to focus on firearm and personal safety over the long weekend: “Many duck hunters will treat the long weekend as a second opening day, and a lot of hunters will travel in from other areas," says Detective Inspector Tony Hill, Acting Prevention Manager : Harm Reduction.
“This is a good opportunity to remind hunters that firearms safety is crucial to ensuring they enjoy their hunting without endangering themselves or others. It’s essential to keep firearms and alcohol completely separate.”
“Many alpine hunters targeting thar, chamois, and deer will be heading into the mountains. They need to make sure they are well prepared to do so. This type of hunting can be physically demanding and the correct gear is essential. We encourage hunters to take with them a hand-held beacon to ensure they can be rescued if they get into difficulties. “
“Lastly before heading out, hunters should refresh their knowledge of the seven rules from the Firearms Safety Code.” says Mr Hill.
ENDS
For more information:
Firearms Safety Code: www.mountainsafety.org.nz
Outdoor Safety: http://www.landsar.org.nz/outdoor-safety
Issued by Police Media Centre.