Police ask public to stay alert for school holidays

Reminders are for motorists to be vigilant and to not drive tired. (File: 148496_02).

As school holidays begin, drivers are being urged by police to stay cautious in areas with children and pedestrians.

Motorists are being reminded to remain alert and extra vigilant around built-up areas, particularly where children, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users might be present.

Those travelling with passengers should ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a properly fastened seatbelt or child restraint, avoid distractions, and take regular breaks on long trips to manage fatigue.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir said there is an increased road trauma risk this month, with school holidays, Easter and ANZAC Day long weekends meaning there will be lots of people moving and travelling across the state, and the end of daylight savings also impacting the conditions.

“Last year’s road trauma insights are just a stark reminder that it doesn’t matter whether you are driving close to home on familiar local roads, or travelling further away, the risk of road trauma is always present,” he said.

In addition to the school holidays commencing this weekend, police are also reminding all road users to consider the end of daylight savings in Victoria, which comes into effect on Sunday.

The changeover from daylight savings means it will start to remain darker for longer periods, with drivers being urged to adjust their driving accordingly, including switching on headlights to help see and be seen.

For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads during April, visit the Road Safety page on the Victoria Police website.