Don't drink and drive. New Zealand Police, the NZ Transport Agency, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and Wellington Free Ambulance are joining forces on the road tonight to remind people not to drink and drive.
“Our emergency services all witness firsthand the consequences of people driving drunk or drugged, it’s something we wish nobody ever has to see,” says Acting Superintendent Amelia Steel, National Manager for Road Policing.
Dr Andy Swain, Wellington Free Ambulance Medical Director, says looking after yourself and each other is really important.
“We’re here for you if you need us, but making sure you and your family stay safe is the best way you can help.
“We always want people to drive safely by considering their fitness to drive, taking regular breaks, avoiding distractions, and driving to the conditions. If you do need us, our team of highly trained paramedics will be there providing the best possible care.”
NZ Transport Agency General Manager Safety, Health and Environment Greg Lazzaro says drivers need to think about the consequences of their actions and take responsibility for the decisions they make.
“Drink-driving inflicts a huge amount of pain and suffering on families and communities, and it’s incredibly disappointing that so many people continue to put themselves and others at risk by driving while impaired.
“Aside from the physical harm you can cause to yourself and others on the road, the consequences of a drink-driving charge or conviction can also be disastrous. There is the very real potential of losing your job, your insurance, and your credibility.”
Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s National Manager Risk Reduction, Roxanne Hilliard says our staff are often first on scene and face the task of getting people out of wreckages, cutting cars apart to rescue potentially trapped occupants and having to possibly extinguish vehicles on fire.
“We encourage motorists to think about the conditions and drive safely this summer.”
Acting Superintendent Amelia Steel says this time of year we want to remind everybody to take care on the roads. December and January are two of the highest months for fatal crashes. Last year, 66 people died on the road over December and January.
“Please, if you’re going to drink over the festive season don’t drive. Always wear your seatbelt and put your phone away, and always drive to the conditions and the speed limit.
“We don’t want to meet you on the road at a crash, or worse; have to tell your family you won’t be coming home ever again.
“Drive safe.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
INFORMATION FOR MEDIA PLANNING TO ATTEND
Tonight, in Wellington Police is running a national road policing operation focusing on impairment prevention and other general road safety checks. Our partners from NZTA, Fire and Emergency, and Wellington Free Ambulance will join Police to engage with the public and media.
Police’s crash car will be at the location as a reminder of what can happen if you aren’t paying attention behind the wheel.
Media are invited to the operation, details as follows:
Report time: 7:45pm Friday 29 November: Brief opening by Police Acting Superintendent, National Manager for Road Policing Amelia Steel and NZ Transport Agency General Manager Safety, Health and Environment Greg Lazzaro. There will be a chance for open questions from media to representatives, including from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and Wellington Free Ambulance.
Requirements: If you want to film on and around the road at the checkpoint site while vehicles are being stopped, reflectorised/ hi-vis clothing must be worn.
RSVP: Please confirm intention to attend by emailing media@police.govt.nz or phone (04) 238 5111. Please provide all contact details so we can advise site location, contact person, and any changes to the programme.
Location: Wellington City location will be advised upon RSVP.
