Lawrence Police are pleased with the result of a ‘Driver Reviver’ early this month, a road-side pit stop providing sausages and drinks to wary drivers returning from holiday.
Police and Fire Brigade handed our refreshments to over 400 drivers over a day.
Senior Constable Craig Bennett said the Driver Reviver initiative was a great opportunity for motorists to take a rest during their return trip from holidaying in Central Otago and the Lakes Area.
“We gave out refreshments, stickers and had New Zealand driving condition and rule booklets available, some in different languages for our visitors,” says Senior Constable Bennett.
“We had a lot of positive feedback, most motorist were astonished we were doing the event. I think the fact that we had over 400 stop and use the opportunity to rest and chat to local officers and Fire staff shows how successful it was.”
The Driver Reviver was run alongside other holiday road-safety initiatives which included messages in local papers and social media, a crashed vehicle on display the entrance to Lawrence township, and Police and Fire vehicles handing out lollies.
“Our local Fire team was fantastic and assisted by doing all the cooking and serving,” says Senior Constable Bennett.
“They are all volunteers and gave up their afternoon to assist in a great cause.”
Senior Constable Bennett says the area had no crashes over the holiday period for the second year running, but reminded drivers to continue to stay alert on the road.
"Police and Fire services are committed to reducing death and injury on our roads but we cannot do it alone.
“We need to work together, so please take responsibility for your driving and reduce the risk to yourselves and others. If you’re feeling tired behind the wheel then pull over and take a break.”
The message to all road users is clear: Don’t drive distracted, stay within your own lane, buckle up, watch your speed, and never drive under the influence of drugs, alcohol or fatigue.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
