Central District Police are urging all motorists to check their trailers and caravans before driving with them this festive season.
"Some basic safety checks will save you time and money. Making sure your trailer or caravan is fit for the journey is crucial. As a road user you are responsible for securing your trailer or caravan and making sure that it does not pose a risk to you and other motorists," says Central District Road Policing Manager Inspector Dave White.
"Also, the last thing you want is to get a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere and have no spare. It's about being prepared and making sure all equipment is working and that you have everything you need before you travel.
"It's only about a week till Christmas and we want you to have a safe journey and reach your destination. Care is needed when towing a trailer or caravan so it's important to allow enough travel time."
The official Christmas/New Year holiday road period begins at 4pm on Tuesday, 24 December 2012, and ends at 6am on Thursday, 3 January 2013.
Police will also be enforcing a lowered speed tolerance over an extended holiday period. Action will be taken against any driver detected driving any more than 4km over the permanent posted speed limit from 4pm Friday, 21 December 2012 until 6am Monday, 7 January 2013.
"Driving for long periods of time while towing can be tiring so please remember to stop, take a break and refresh.
"At this time of the year our highways are busy and delays are to be expected. Getting frustrated is not worth the energy. Instead, focus on getting you and your family and friends to your destination safely," says Inspector White.
Some key checks to do on your trailer or caravan before you go:
• Make sure your trailer or caravan has a current WOF and is fit for the journey
• Always connect your trailer safety chain
• Check that your trailer plug is connected and all lights are working
• Make sure all loads are secure
• Don't overload your trailer
• Have spare tyres available
• Use a safety flag or high visibility strip of material to highlight to other motorists the length of your load
• Allow plenty of time to get to your destination - we would rather you get there early than not at all
And most importantly; always keep to the speed limits, don't drink and drive, don't drive tired - take plenty of breaks, buckle up, and don't use mobile phones whilst driving.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.