Stay Safe This Summer

BY SARAH  BARONOWSKI

'Don't Be Another Summer Statistic' is the message NSW Police are giving Hunter residents as the weather starts to heat up.

While the hotter season is usually a time to celebrate and relax, police say it can also be a period rife with tragic accidents. This time last year, there were a total of 41 drowning deaths across the state as well as 75 deaths on NSW roads.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Troy Grant says as we head into summer, people need to heed police warnings and stay safe over the holiday season.

"Be smart about what you're doing. Be careful where you're having the barbeques, make sure you don't do some of the silly things that can lead to tragedy within minutes. These are the messages that I want everyone to heed," he said.

"All of those driving safety warnings are ones that we want you and need you to follow. It's not just your life you're saving, it's other people's lives as well."

Police have issued four steps that people can take to protect themselves and their families over the next few months: Be aware of what to do and who to call in an emergency situation. Plan ahead by trimming trees, clearing drains and getting your property ready for the hot season. Know your risk and the consequences of your actions. And most importantly, look out for each other. 

Troy Grant says if people follow these steps and act responsibly, countless lives could be saved this season.

"Ultimately, it comes down to individual responsibility and the key fact is we have to look after each other. We've got to look out for each other and if we do that, some of those tragedies can and will be avoided.

"If you don't do it for your family if you don't do it for your community, do it for yourself and please enjoy the summer. Let's not let it end in heartbreak."

Motorists advised to be safe in Wild Weather

BY SARAH BARONOWSKI

With four deaths on Hunter roads in the last 48 hours, motorists are being urged to take greater care when driving especially in the wet weather.

Forecasts for extreme wind and rain this weekend are a concern for Chief Inspector, Bruce McGreggor who says people need to be vigilant and stay safe on the roads.

"I'd just like people to drive to the conditions," he said.

"At the moment with the rain that's falling and the gloomy skies, certainly have your headlines on, reduce your speed to what you're comfortable with where you can stop quickly. Be courteous to other road users. Don't take unnecessary risks."

He says recent accidents on the road are very concerning.

"We have these unfortunate accidents that have been occurring where people are driving onto the wrong side of the road and colliding head on with other vehicles," he said.

"It appears that inattention is a factor there and people aren't driving with due space between vehicles to slow when required."

According to the Chief Inspector, the Hunter is leading the state in road fatalities for 2017.

"At the moment in northern region, we've had 24 deaths on the roads so far this year and that's far too many. We want to reduce it and I'm asking for assistance from the motoring public."

Motorists are advised to exercise more caution on the roads. Image: [https://madovermarketing.com/2016/07/31/chevrolet-is-creating-awareness-around-road-safety-in-the-most-innovative-way-ever-2/]