Don’t be driven to distraction

People who put their lives at risk by using their mobile phone and other distractions whilst driving are being targeted this week as part of a national initiative designed to reduce the number of Road Traffic Collisions (RTC).

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service will be supporting the official launch of the United Nations Decade of Action on road safety on Wednesday (11 May) by visiting supermarkets, petrol stations and large car parks to talk to people about how they can avoid becoming a statistic, and help reduce the number of deaths and injuries on our roads.

Director of Prevention and Protection Peter O'Reilly said: “It is extremely important for all of us to support this initiative and understand what a traumatic experience a Road Traffic Collision can be, not only for those unfortunate enough to be involved in one, but for witnesses, the casualties family and friends, as well as the emergency workers who respond to them.

“This is an opportunity for people to speak to fire-fighters about their experiences in the hope that they will go away with a more considered approach to the way they drive.”

CFO Peter Holland, President of the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) said “I am delighted that Fire and Rescue Services across the UK are supporting this initiative.

“I believe that the safety strategies we apply to fire risk are entirely transferable to road risk.

“I am convinced that the Fire and Rescue Service, with our partner agencies, can make a major contribution in reducing the number of deaths and injuries on our roads.”

CFO Kevin Pearson, CFOA lead on road safety, added: “Our purpose on 11 May is to try to engage with motorists using the motorway network (and other major roads) and calling in to service areas. Our message to motorists is that if you use the services; please take a few more minutes out of your journey to talk to the fire-fighters on site.

“The information they can give you will not only help to ensure your journey continues safely, but it could also save your life. We have made great progress in road safety in
the UK, but we must not be complacent – the numbers involved are still far too high. Our commitment on the day also represents the beginning of our commitment for the next 10 years.

“We want to see less accidents, less deaths and less injuries. Our professional fire-fighters can help to achieve this aim.”