Welcome to Road Safety Wales
3/2/12
School children across Newport learned about the importance of Road Safety with the help of a magician and two friendly puppets. The pupils of St. Julian’s Primary School gave the show the seal of approval with a thumbs-up all round.
During his recent visit to Newport, Road Safety magician and entertainer Louis Taylor visited 11 primary schools armed with his puppets Mr Rocco and Billy Beacon, magic tricks and serious road safety messages of “Stop, Look and Listen”, “Be Safe Be Seen” and “Always Use a Seatbelt” when travelling in cars. Louis uses a variety of techniques to stimulate children’s road safety awareness, including magic, drama and comical puppets.
The shows have been developed to get across the basic messages of holding a grown-up’s hand, for the younger children; and stopping at the kerb, looking and listening, every time you cross the road, for the older ones. The visits to schools were organised by John Jackson, Road Safety Officer with Capita Symonds on behalf of Newport City Council, who have funded the Louis Taylor Road Safety visits to Newport for the past three years.
John Jackson said: “The Louis Taylor Road Safety Shows are great fun for children of all ages, yet they deliver very important Life Skill messages that the children remember and talk about for a long time”.
In the attached photograph are pupils from St Julian’s Primary School with Louis Taylor and Mr Rocco.
For further information: contact John Jackson at Capita Symonds, 01633 412705, John.e.jackson@capita.co.uk
31/1/12
Are you over 50 years of age? Do you wish to improve your driving?
Rhondda Cynon Taff Road Safety Unit are offiering the opportunity to learn key skills to reduce general motoring and repair costs and attain fuel economy..
The programme includes:
- A practical on-road drive with an Approved Driving Instructor
- Use of a Driving Simulator.
- Advice and information on Eco Driving, general vehicle maintenance issues, winter driving etc.
- Computerised Highway Code session.
- First Aid
- Road Safety and Advice from South Wales Police
The Event will be held at:
The Safety Zone
Taffs Mead Road
Treforest Industrial Estate
Pontypridd
CF37 5SU
It will be held on:
Monday 27th February 2012 - places limited to 20
Tuesday 28th February 2012 - places limited to 20
Wednesday 29th February 2012 - places limited to 20
Times: 9:00am - 1:30pm
These courses are FREE OF CHARGE
For further information, please contact the Road Safety Unit on 01443 844037.
6/1/12
The dedication of people who ensure the safety of children on the roads in the Vale of Glamorgan, has been recognised. The Vale of Glamorgan Council paid tribute to its school crossing patrols and volunteers involved with the child pedestrian training scheme, Kerbcraft, were thanked for their work.
Their professionalism and enthusiasm in providing safe crossing points and equipping children with skills to stay safe, in the Kerbcraft scheme, over the past 12 months was rewarded in a ceremony held in Barry. The school crossing patrol of the year award went to Jean Hatter, who has been a stalwart of the service since 1998.
For Kerbcraft, Elizabeth Matthews, was the standout volunteer, who has worked above and beyond the call of duty for several years, sometimes at both All Saints and Jenner Park Primary Schools in Barry.
Other area winners were Helen Wilkinson, from Eagleswell Primary School, for the Llantwit Major and rural Vale area, who in her dual role as dinner lady and school crossing patrol is an important part of the school community.
For the Barry Area, mobile officer, Katie Coates was mentioned for spending most of the past year covering St Helen’s Infants and Ysgol Sant Curig. Katie has worked as a school crossing patrol for almost 15 years.
For Penarth, Sully and Dinas Powys, Elaine Storey, had helped pupils from a variety of schools in Penarth on Redlands Road. With nearly 12 years of service to her name, she has always been creative and innovative with ideas to support her role.
Head of planning and transportation, Rob Thomas, paid tribute to both services. He said: "The success of any scheme relies upon the commitment and dedication of the individuals involved, be it on a voluntary basis or in a paid role. To remain enthusiastic and continue to smile while standing in the pouring rain takes a very dedicated individual."
Since its launch in Wales in 2002, child pedestrian training has involved almost 4,000 children in the Vale of Glamorgan alone.
A presentation was also made to the winners of the Road Safety Christmas Card Competition, which had more than 300 entries.
The overall winner was Robyn Walters from St Andrews Major School, Dinas Powys, with Gen Pipps of Llandough and Tyler Carter of Cadoxton as runners-up.
4/1/12
Volunteers and members of staff that help ensure Caerphilly county borough schoolchildren are safe and know all about road safety were thanked for their hard work recently, at the annual School Crossing Patrol and Road Safety Seminar.
The event, which brought together dedicated Kerbcraft volunteers, Road Safety officers and School Crossing Patrol officers from across the county borough, aimed to thank everyone for their hard work this year, and take a look at new road safety initiatives for the forthcoming year.
Cllr Rob Gough, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, Engineering and Transport said, "Our Road Safety team, together with a network of volunteers and School Crossing Patrol officers work tirelessly to help ensure our local youngsters know all about the importance of road safety, and to ensure their safety coming to, and going home from school".
He continued, "We have a wide variety of initiatives, such as the Kerbcraft Scheme and Walking Buses, which really help to educate our children about keeping safe when out and about, and I am delighted that those who work so hard to ensure these vital schemes are able to come to fruition have been thanked at our annual road safety seminar".
A special mention was given to Ysgol Y Lawnt, who as well as entertaining guests with their choir, also hold the record for the biggest walking bus in Caerphilly county borough.
Mr Griffiths, Head teacher of Ysgol Gynradd Cymraeg Caerffili was also thanked for his commitment and enthusiasm for leading the Walking Bus for almost eight years every Friday throughout the year.
The Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough Council, Cllr Vera Jenkins, also offered her personal thanks to the Kerbcraft volunteers, for their commitment in bringing the subject of road safety and the roadside to pupils across Caerphilly county borough. She also presented two 25 years service awards for School Crossing Patrols to Mrs Barker and Mrs Wheeler and one for a retirement after 24 years service to Mrs Philpot.
Cllr Rob Gough closed the seminar and thanked all the Road Safety team for their continued commitment and hard work and reminded all present that even one alcoholic drink can effect your judgment and reaction times - so the message is 'none for the road'.
For more information, contact the Road Safety team on 01495 235 402, or for information on School Crossing Patrols, contact Sandra Bennett on 01495 235 109 or go to the Road Safety web pages
4/1/11
To promote the anti drinking and driving message, schools and youth organisations were invited to devise, perform and record a live action multimedia presentation to warn people of the dangers and/or consequences of drinking and driving, in the fourth annual competition.
Winners of the Regional Competition received £500 for the school/organisation they represented and individual team prizes, presented by Chief Constable Carmel Napier of Gwent Police, at an event held to launch the Christmas Anti Drink Drive Campaign on 1st December 2011.
North Wales – Yale College, Wrexham, have entered the annual competition since its inception four years ago. The college media department submit entries of the highest quality and this years’ is no exception. “A Lost Beauty” depicts the story of a young woman whose modelling aspirations are cut tragically short as a consequence of drink driving.
Dyfed Powys – The amusingly titled “News for Numpties” is the Dyfed Powys winning entry from Ysgol Measydderwen, Ystradgynlais. Filmed in the style of a news bulletin, the piece focuses on stating the obvious – and in a well acted film, reminds viewers that that drink driving is dangerous, futile and can lead to life changing consequences for families.
South Wales – Spark Blaenymaes and Blaenymaes Primary School, Swansea, produced the regional winning entry for South Wales. Their message being, that the decision to take to the wheel following “Just One Drink” (the title of their film) can lead to tragic events. The piece reminds drivers that even a single alcoholic drink have a detrimental effect on a drivers’ reaction time.
Gwent – The winning entry for Gwent comes from Lewis School, Pengam, Caerphilly. Pupil and composer Richard Morgan teams up with Amanda Leaver to produce this moving, original music video for their entry entitled “Find A Way”. The piece captures the sadness brought about by drink driving and creatively conveys the seriousness of the message to viewers.
Winning entries can be viewed here
3/1/12
An innovative joint road safety partnership for Gwynedd, Anglesey and the three emergency services has been officially launched at a road safety event at Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor, Glynllifon.
The first agreement of its kind in Wales means that the Gwynedd-Môn Road Safety Partnership will see road safety teams from Gwynedd Council, the Isle of Anglesey County Council, North Wales Police, the Wales Ambulance Service and the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service working together to ensure safety on the roads in both counties.
Dermot O’Leary from the Wales Ambulance Service and Partnership Chairman said: “The new road safety partnership for Anglesey and Gwynedd brings together the skills and experience of the emergency services and local authorities as a taskforce which aims to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads. All too often we witness the tragic consequences of collisions and their lasting effects on local communities, and by working together in a focused and intelligence led way, we can target vulnerable and high risk groups and drive home the message that safety on the road is no accident.”
The aim of the new partnership is to ensure that all partner agenencies work together to ensure a coordinated road safety message across Gwynedd and Anglesey.
As part of the event, the Gwynedd - Môn Road Safety Partnership’s new website - www.dffgwyneddmon.net - was also unveiled. The site will provide a range of advice, information and top tips about staying safe on the roads in both counties.
Councillor Stephen Chruchman, Gwynedd Council’s road safety champion said: “The issue of road safety affects us all and collision statistics in Wales make for grim reading, particularly involving young drivers and passengers aged between 17 and 26. This is why I believe that tackling this issue is a priority for all partnership members and why it is particularly pleasing to see agencies coming together to share a common message. The work of the partnership is already on show through the new website. This resource is key to the success of the partnership and provides excellent facilities and information for people of all ages.”
Huw Percy, Chief Engineer from the Isle of Anglesey County Council noted: It is appropriate for the launch to be hosted at Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor since it coincides with current initiatives to train young drivers and to urge youngsters to leave a car if they are worried about a driver going too fast, using a phone or taking drugs or alcohol.”
During the day, Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor students had the opportunity to talk and question road safety officers from all partner agencies, with various events and presentations also held with the aim of driving home the message of road safety amongst young drivers.
Megan Jones from Deiniolen who is a student at Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor said: "The new website is a good idea, it will provide a lot of information to help young drivers learn about road safety. Being part of the launch was a very good experience. I’m not a driver yet, but I’ve learned a lot about what I need to think about, and be aware of, when I’m behind a wheel. I think I’ve also learned how to be a more responsible passenger too, and to say something if I feel that the driver is being careless.”
Ben Hughes from Pwllheli is also a student at the college. He added: “I’m not a driver yet, but I intend to use the new website to learn more and to prepare myself for when I do learn to drive. As part of the website launch we had the opportunity to hear about the emergency services officers experiences and to ask questions. I’m very glad to have had the opportunity to attend the event think it is very important for days like this be held so that young people are made aware of road safety. Having access to a website that has all the information will be useful. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to be part of the launch.”
3/1/12
Pupils at Tonypandy Primary have – with the help of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s dedicated Road Safety Team and their local South Wales Police neighbourhood policing team – laid down the law, literally, to drivers. They closed the street outside their school and laid down on the zig-zag and double yellow lines outside the gates, to make the point to motorists that parking on such warning markings is directly endangering lives.
Many motorists, including mums and dads, think it is ok to park on double yellow and zig-zag lines outside schools, “just for a minute” while they drop off or collect children, failing to understand that those few seconds is endangering the life of someone else’s son or daughter.
Double yellow and zig-zag lines are placed outside schools in order to keep the area clear, allowing children the chance to cross the road with maximum visibility and without having to dodge parked cars and traffic jams caused by inconsiderate parking.
The campaign delivered by Tonypandy Primary School forms part of extensive awareness-raising and enforcement work being delivered by partners across Rhondda Cynon Taf in order to protect young pedestrians and ensure road safety outside schools.
In addition to the campaign, the school has also stepped up its road safety commitment with the appointment of Junior Road Safety Officers, nominated pupils who work to raise awareness of issues, ensuring their classmates, and the wider community, take care.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member for Transport, Customer Care and Emergency Planning, said: “Well done to the pupils at Tonypandy Primary School who are working so hard to address the issues many of our communities face.
“By working with pupils from such an early age, we are installing road safety messages they can keep with them for life.
“Thanks to the work of the JRSOs, supported by the Council’s Road Safety Team and South Wales Police, we can spread that message to others, including the wider community, who we rely upon to help keep children safe.
3/1/12
Conwy County Borough Council is working with local police and schools to encourage parents to think about their parking habits outside schools.
Schools within the county have been purchasing wooden little people from a local charity and children have painted road safety messages decided by the school council. The signs are not left outside but displayed regularly by the Police and Road Safety Team.
The Road Safety section, Police and Enforcement Officers go to the schools and raise the importance of not parking on the zig zags and on the yellow lines and issue tickets to any parents parked illegally.
3/1/12
Cwmparc pupils are stepping out with style and safety – after completing essential training with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Road Safety Team.
Parc Primary is the latest school to benefit from the dedicated team’s Kerbcraft training, to keep young residents safe when they are out and about.
With the help of school staff and parents who have come in to help deliver the sessions, the children have learned how to be aware of road dangers, how to be seen and stay safe, how to cross the road and more.
Over the last 10 weeks, they have secured skills and confidence to ensure they remain safe at all times.
Kerbcraft is just one of the many interventions being delivered to residents of all ages by the Road Safety Team, which also include:
- Cycling proficiency and skills
- Awareness and training for older drivers, especially those who work to provide transport for the vulnerable.
- Virtual and real driving experiences for teenagers looking forward to their first driving lessons.
- Road safety discos to raise awareness in a fun and engaging environment
- Partnership campaigns with the police to stop illegal, inconsiderate and dangerous parking on zig-zag and double yellow lines outside schools.
- The appointment of Junior Road Safety Officers, who acts as champions for their school and community, raising awareness of issues.
- The high profile campaign with Sophie Evans, star of West End’s Wizard of Oz, focusing on crossing the road safely, always wearing a helmet when cycling, switching off your mobile and concentrating on where you are walking and wearing a seatbelt or using car seats on every journey.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member for Transport, Customer Care and Emergency Planning, said: "Every day, there is work taking place by the Road Safety Team, in one form or another, to engage with residents of all ages to ensure we are all safe pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
"Kerbcraft is just one of those pieces of work and we are proud of the hard work put in by the pupils at Parc Primary to ensure they learn the skills and confidence they need to star safe.
3/1/12
Over 1,300 children from across Pembrokeshire have been given safety advice at this year’s Crucial Crew. The pupils took part in the annual event, at the Withybush Showground in Haverfordwest.
Co-ordinated by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Road Safety Unit, and sponsored by South Hook LNG with support from PowerSafe, Crucial Crew teaches Year 6 pupils from across the County how to deal with various potential dangers and hazards.
Throughout the two-week event professionals from several different agencies gave youngsters advice on how to stay safe on the road, on the beach, on farms and at home.
Now in its 18th year, the event has hosted well over 20,000 children in Pembrokeshire over the years.
Councillor Jamie Adams, Cabinet Member for Highways and Planning, who visited the event last week, thanked all who took part for their commitment and regard for the safety of children in the County.
“Crucial Crew is a brilliant event designed to encourage young people to learn how to react to dangerous situations and to provide an opportunity for them to practice safety skills in an exciting, stimulating and safe environment,” he said.
“The feedback we have is that the children enjoy it and learn valuable lessons.
Mohammed Al Naimi, General Manager of South Hook LNG, is hugely impressed by the event, commenting: “Safety is our top priority at South Hook, so to be able to support such a valuable learning experience for Pembrokeshire youngsters is incredibly rewarding for us.”
Organisations taking part in this year’s event are: Domestic Abuse Forum, Dyfed Powys Police, Food Safety, Maritime Coastguard Agency, Mid and West Wales, Fire Brigade, National Farmers Union, Road Safety, School Transport, Red Cross, Welsh Ambulance Trust, RNLI and Western Power Distribution.
Organisers thanked main sponsors South Hook LNG and also PowerSafe for their financial support and also the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society for providing the event building.
Caption:
Children learnt how to deal with potential dangers and hazards at this year’s Crucial Crew. Pictured with pupils from Narberth CP School are (left to right); John Gobbi, county road safety officer, Laura Allen-Clarke, community liaison co-ordinator at South Hook LNG, Paul Deverson from Powersafe, Rebecca Evans and Ghislane Davies from South Hook LNG, Jim Moffat, health and safety manager at South Hook LNG, Steve Bryant, group manager at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Chief Superintendant Dean Richards, and Simon Pearson, station manager for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
16/12/11
A film by Pupils at Lewis School, Pengam, in the Caerphilly County Borough, is the 2011 Gwent Regional winner of the all Wales Multi Media Competition
The central feature of the film is a haunting song written and produced by 17 year old Richard Morgan. The lyrics gently speak about the devastating effect on family and friends after someone has lost their life in a d
rink drive crash.
“Just one life, so don’t drink and drive
It’s too late to change it now
It’s too late . . . .the damage is done”
The video footage, produced by Amanda Lever compliments the music track by subtly illustrating the long-term emotional damage to family and friends following a fatal drink drive crash.
“Forget the life you left behind
Find a way . . . to start it again”
The film has been loaded onto YouTube and can be viewed by clicking here
The competition is an annual event organised by Road Safety Wales.
To promote the anti drinking and driving message, schools and organisations are invited to devise, perform and record a live action multimedia presentation that will warn people of the dangers and/or consequences of drinking and driving.
‘Find a Way’, is a strong and sobering message to all drivers who still think that they can drink and drive.
For further information: contact Penny Thorpe at Capita Symonds, 01633 463376, penny.thorpe@capita.co.uk
15/12/11
The annual Welsh Road Safety Awards recognise the good road safety practice, innovative projects and personal contributions being undertaken in Wales. The Award Scheme publicises and raises awareness of the contributions towards road casualty reduction targets.
Nominations should be submitted on the form below, (accompanied by any relevant supporting material) no later than . Winners will be invited to receive their Award at the Road Safety Wales Convention lunch on Wednesday 7 March at the Metropole Hotel, Llandrindod Wells.
Award winners will receive £100 and a souvenir gift.
Click here for the nomination form.
Please return completed forms to:
Road Safety Wales, RoSPA, 2 Cwrt-y-Parc, Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5GH
Tel: 029 2025 0600 Fax: 029 2025 0601 E-mail: jbibby@rospa.com
15/12/11
Over 1,300 children from across Pembrokeshire have been given safety advice at this year’s Crucial Crew. The pupils took part in the annual event, at the Withybush Showground in Haverfordwest.
Co-ordinated by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Road Safety Unit, and sponsored by South Hook LNG with support from PowerSafe, Crucial Crew teaches Year 6 pupils from across the County how to deal with various potential dangers and hazards.
Throughout the two-week event professionals from several different agencies gave youngsters advice on how to stay safe on the road, on the beach, on farms and at home.
Now in its 18th year, the event has hosted well over 20,000 children in Pembrokeshire over the years.
Councillor Jamie Adams, Cabinet Member for Highways and Planning, who visited the event last week, thanked all who took part for their commitment and regard for the safety of children in the County.
“Crucial Crew is a brilliant event designed to encourage young people to learn how to react to dangerous situations and to provide an opportunity for them to practice safety skills in an exciting, stimulating and safe environment,” he said.
“The feedback we have is that the children enjoy it and learn valuable lessons.
Mohammed Al Naimi, General Manager of South Hook LNG, is hugely impressed by the event, commenting: “Safety is our top priority at South Hook, so to be able to support such a valuable learning experience for Pembrokeshire youngsters is incredibly rewarding for us.”
Organisations taking part in this year’s event are: Domestic Abuse Forum, Dyfed Powys Police, Food Safety, Maritime Coastguard Agency, Mid and West Wales, Fire Brigade, National Farmers Union, Road Safety, School Transport, Red Cross, Welsh Ambulance Trust, RNLI and Western Power Distribution.
Organisers thanked main sponsors South Hook LNG and also PowerSafe for their financial support and also the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society for providing the event building.
Caption:
Children learnt how to deal with potential dangers and hazards at this year’s Crucial Crew. Pictured with pupils from Narberth CP School are (left to right); John Gobbi, county road safety officer, Laura Allen-Clarke, community liaison co-ordinator at South Hook LNG, Paul Deverson from Powersafe, Rebecca Evans and Ghislane Davies from South Hook LNG, Jim Moffat, health and safety manager at South Hook LNG, Steve Bryant, group manager at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Chief Superintendant Dean Richards, and Simon Pearson, station manager for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.
For further information contact Ceri Jones, Assistant Press and Public Relations Officer, on 01437 775855. The Council’s press releases are also available on the Authority’s website: www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk
13/12/11
Twelve days into the Christmas anti-drink/drug drive campaign Gwent Police officers have already conducted over 2000 tests and made 26 arrests.
Launched on 1st December, the all Wales campaign aims to identify and take action against those who break the law by getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. It also gives officers the opportunity to educate and raise awareness of the issue.
2228 breath tests have been administered to drivers in the Gwent area since 1st December, 26 of those have resulted in arrest for a positive, refused or failed test which equates to 1.2%.
Roads Policing Chief Inspector, John Pavett said; "The campaign has got off to a busy start and we will be continuing this focussed effort for the remainder of the festive season.
"In just this first part of the campaign we have identified an average of two people per day risking their lives and those of others by ignoring the drink drive law. This is extremely dangerous and irresponsible and they will now face the consequences.
"If you are out over the festive period enjoying yourself and drinking alcohol, please think ahead and make arrangements to get home safely and legally. The message as always is simple, if you drink, don't drive and if you drive, don't drink."
Anyone with concerns about people who drink or take drugs and drive should contact Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always call 999.
1/12/11
To promote the anti drinking and driving message, schools and youth organisations were invited to devise, perform and record a live action multimedia presentation to warn people of the dangers and/or consequences of drinking and driving.
In this, the third year of the Multimedia Anti Drink Drive Competition, four regional winners were presented with a prize of £500 for the school/organisation they represented and additional prizes given to individual team members. Five Highly Commended awards were also made at the All Wales Anti Drink Drive Launch at the Congress Theatre Thursday 1 December.
| North Wales |
Yale College, Wrexham |
| South Wales |
Spark Blaenymaes and Blaenymaes Primary School, Swansea |
| Dyfed Powys |
Ysgol Measydderwen, Ystradgynlais |
| Gwent |
Lewis School, Pengam, Caerphilly |
Video clips will be uploaded to this site in due course.
1/12/11This Christmas police will be targeting drivers who risk their lives and the lives of others by driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Gwent Police will lead the month-long campaign on behalf of the four welsh police forces, with the launch taking place at the Congress Theatre in Cwmbran on Thursday 1st December.
Last year in Wales a total of 40,264 motorists took part in the campaign, with 578 returning either positive results or failing/refusing to take the breath test.
Chief Constable of Gwent Police, Carmel Napier said:
"We are committed to making the roads in Wales safer and year on year we raise awareness of the dangers of driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs through campaigns such as this one.
"Christmas is a time for enjoyment and social events, and whilst I would encourage everyone to have a good time, it is important to reiterate our key message; if you drink, don’t drive and if you drive, don’t drink – it’s that simple!"
Officers in Wales will be out and about 24 hours a day, 7 days a week conducting high profile roadside checks and using intelligence to identify offenders. Although this is a month-long focussed campaign, the drive to change attitudes, increase road safety and catch offenders continues all year round.
The Chair of Road Safety Wales, Susan Storch, said: "Our advice is that if you're expecting to drink alcohol during the Christmas holiday, plan how to get home without driving. Don't offer an alcoholic drink to someone you know is planning to drive and don’t accept a lift from a driver you know has drunk alcohol."
Welsh Government Minster with responsibility for Transport, Carl Sargeant, said:
"Alcohol related deaths on our roads are entirely avoidable. The Welsh Government is committed to targeting the small minority of people drinking and driving on our roads, and campaigns like this are crucial to changing attitudes."
Gwent Police officers will be launching the campaign at the Congress Theatre in Gwent Square, Cwmbran at 12pm on Thursday 1st December 2011. Roads Policing Officers and Special Constables will be on hand to speak with members of the public, and give them the chance to take a breath test to gain a greater understanding of the process and how the equipment works. Partner agencies will also be present with information and stands to support and raise awareness of the campaign.
If you have information relating to someone you think is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please contact police on 101. In an emergency always call 999.
1/12/11
This year’s Christmas Poster Competition was another resounding success for many young people from Gwent.
Those who won awards for their Road Safety Posters came to claim
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Junior Winner, Iwan White, Lanyrafon Primary School |
their prizes at The Civic Centre, Newport on 29 November. A total of 598 posters were entered in the competition, all to a high standard making choosing the winners a very difficult task.
Chief Supt Alun Thomas who attended the event and presented prizes to the winners said: “Gwent Police is committed to raising awareness of road safety through education as well as enforcement, and this competition provides us with a great opportunity to work with local children and partner agencies to do so.
“We value the brilliant contribution made by the schools and pupils of Gwent this and every year.
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Senior Winner, Selby Sims, Tredegar Comprehensive School
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The messages these posters convey are so important, especially at this time of year, and we hope that they will encourage people to think and drive more carefully and responsibly.”
Penny Thorpe, Principal Road Safety Officer for Capita Symonds Road Safety Team who organised the event said, “The depth of understanding of the consequences of drinking and driving shown by the pupils in their posters is outstanding. Thanks must go to their teachers who have helped focus their efforts.”
The winners received a cheque for £100, the runners up won £50 and the school with the most entries also won £50.
Everyone also received certificates for a keepsake.
Winner - Iwan White – Llanyrafon Primary, Torfaen
Best School – St Julian’s Primary, Newport (a massive 132 entries!)
Winner – Shelby Sims – Tredegar Comprehensive, Blaenau Gwent
Best School – Tredegar Comprehensive, Blaenau Gwent (31 entries)
Junior Winner, Iwan White receives his prize from Ch Supt Alun Thomas 
Senior Winner, Selby Sims receives her prize from Ch Supt Alun Thomas
21/11/11
Swansea City footballers are backing a campaign to educate youngsters about the dangers and consequences of poor driving as part of Road Safety Week (21-27 November).
The Premier League team are supporting GoSafe’s Deadly Mates campaign, which also highlights the importance of peer pressure in getting young motorists to drive carefully and slow down by speaking out against dangerous driving.
Leaflets will be handed out at the Swans game against Aston Villa on 27 November, via the Club Shop and Ticket Office. Announcements about the campaign will also be made at half-time.
Jim Moore, manager of GoSafe – the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership, said: “Road collisions are sudden, violent events that rip apart families by ending lives too soon, causing life-changing injuries and leading to terrible suffering. This is the biggest killer of young people in the UK yet these accidents are preventable.
“During Road Safety Week, we’ll be appealing to young people, drivers of all ages, parents and the wider community to work together to put a stop to this needless loss of young lives on our roads. We’ll be asking all young people to look out for themselves and their friends as drivers and passengers, and speak up if they feel their friend is driving dangerously.”
Swansea City’s Captain Garry Monk said: “We know that young people look up to our players so we are happy to do anything we can to help bring down these casualties.”
GoSafe will be operating night-time mobile camera enforcement throughout the week at collision hotspots to make motorists aware of their speeds at night, when visibility is low and road hazards are not so obvious.
Deadly Mates is funded and managed by the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership and supported by the four Welsh police forces, local authorities, Road Safety Wales, RoSPA, Welsh Government, HMCS and the emergency services.
For further information on the campaign please visit www.gosafe.org and its sister site www.deadlymates.com.
For more information on the Deadly Mates campaign and Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership, please contact Lesa Hitchings on 01792 637764 or email lesa.hitchings@swansea.gov.uk
18/11/11
A multi agency operation took place near Welshpool earlier this week with the support of the Welsh Government and Powys Local Authority. Mid Wales Roads Policing Unit led the operation and officers were joined by colleagues from South Wales and Gwent Police Forces, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, VOSA, HM Revenues & Customs, the DVLA and Animal Health and Welfare.
“The aim of this operation was to target those drivers who are using the roads illegally and to address any offences that have an impact on road safety which ultimately puts the lives of other road users at risk,” said Roads Policing Inspector Mark Davies for Dyfed Powys Police. “Offences could be poor or even dangerous mechanical upkeep or use of a vehicle to drivers not being properly insured or licenced.”
Mid Wales Roads Policing Sergeant Sean Westlake said, “During the day-long operation, a total of 79 vehicles were stop checked. Only 47 of these were clear. Thirty two had offences which resulted in an offence rate of over 40% on the day; in other words 2 out of every 5 vehicles stop-checked had offences.”
“Forty three Heavy Goods Vehicles were checked with 16 found to have offences, these ranged from immediate prohibitions issued for brakes and tyres to graduated fixed penalties issued for driver hours infringements.”
“Of the 29 light goods vehicles checked only 16 were clear – 4 vehicles were seized under the powers of Section 165 for driving without valid insurance and/or not in accordance with a driving licence; others had offences with tyres and brakes.”
“The high rate of offending on the day is a cause of concern, and my colleagues and I will be looking to address that in the coming weeks,” said Sergeant Westlake. “We understand that in the current economic climate that we are all facing challenges financially but we mustn’t let that affect our safe travel on the road network and more importantly we have a responsibility to ensure we are not a risk to other road users.”
8/11/11
Each month Road Safety Operations in South Wales Police have been co-ordinated to tackle the main Roads Policing monthly themes which include Speeding, Mobile phone misuse and seatbelts etc. The ultimate aim of conducting these Operations is to reduce road casualties through enforcement and education. In October a mobile phone campaign ‘Operation Sim’ was conducted over a three day period. During this time 11 people were reported for mobile phone offences, but alarmingly 48 people were reported for seatbelt offences.
Over these three days, numerous females were warned for not wearing their seatbelts properly. It has become more and more evident that young females insist on wearing their seatbelts under their arms. It has been medically proven that life changing injuries can result when involved in a collision and not wearing a seat belt as it was designed to be worn.
If anyone would like further advice or car stickers to display in their vehicle regarding mobile phones, seatbelts, drink driving or speed, please call Nicola Brimble at South Wales Police Headquarters on ext 20 318, “ You will be doing your bit to promote Road Safety!”
8/11/11
A second Road Safety operation was carried out at colleges throughout the South Wales Force area. The operation involved Roads Policing Unit officers, RPU Special constables and Road Safety officers from partner agencies in the local authorities.
It has been identified that even though they know the law and the possible consequences young drivers still insist on not wearing seatbelts.
Brideshead was run over three days with alarming results. Some drivers blatantly ignored the law and others; mainly young females wore their seatbelt under the arm, which of course would not save life in the event of a collision but could in fact cause more injury. 118 offenders were dealt with by means of Fixed penalty notice or by cautions, 1 vehicle was also seized for no insurance.
Nicola Brimble said “we will continue to work with the local authorities to tackle this needless offence until the message gets across that the wearing of a seat belt will save your life”.
Our local authorities regularly attend colleges to educate the young regarding Road Safety, but it is evident that there is also a need for enforcement to target the consistent offenders.
Pictured: PC Jonathon Burke, PC Julian John, Nicola Brimble, SC Jonathan Edwards and SC Wayne Ryall.
7/11/11
The community of Ystrad can give itself a pat on the back for its extraordinary effort to keep pupils safe! The arrival of the Green Cone scheme at Bodringallt Primary and YGG Bodringallt is as a result of residents coming together to help raise the funds needed for the essential scheme.
The Green Cone Scheme has been purchased for use outside the schools during busy pick up and drop off times, keeping streets clear and preventing illegal parking on zig-zag and double yellow lines so pupils can make their way to and from school safely.
It is the brainchild of both schools, working with the Rhondda Cynon Taf Road Safety Unit and local PCSO Cherylin Pryor.
To raise the cost of the cones, pupils held a sponsored dance that was supported by the community and even members of the Monday Group, Ystrad Old Age and Llys Ben Bowen sheltered accommodation got involved, holding sponsored armchair aerobics.
The Council’s Road Safety Unit and South Wales Police have gained official permission from the Welsh Government to implement the scheme and are able to place green cones along any part of the carriageway or to reinforce existing road markings where the potential for danger is deemed high.
To fully ensure that children and their guardians are as safe as possible fixed penalty notices can also be issued in extreme situations.
Cabinet Member for Transport, Cllr Andrew Morgan, said: “Children’s safety is of optimum importance and it is essential that is maintained throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf. Parking on corners, at crossroads and on the pavement severely impacts the pedestrian’s view of the road and could have dangerous consequences.
“The ‘Green Cone Scheme’ is the latest in a number of initiatives currently in place throughout the County Borough which aim to improve road safety. From the placement of more than 60 School Crossing Patrols in key locations to the introduction of Junior Road Safety Officers in schools, who help raise awareness of road safety amongst their peers, we aim to ensure that everyone is as safe as possible when using the roads.”
PCSO Cherylin Prior added: "“Parking outside the school regularly cropped up at local PACT meetings.
“We increased visibility in the area, and sent letters to parents, which did have an impact but only temporarily.
“This solution is sustainable, cost effective, and proven to be successful in other parts so I am confident it will make children safer, and make adults more responsible.
“Rest assured we will continue to patrol the area and issue fixed penalty notices to anyone who’s driving is putting the safety of school pupils at risk.
“I’d like to thank everyone who helped raised the money to fund the initiative."
7/11/11
YGG Aberdar pupils have laid down the law to inconsiderate and illegal drivers who endanger lives by parking on double yellow lines outside their school. The road was closed to enable the six and seven-year-olds to stage a photocall with a difference to spread the important road safety message.
With the help of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s dedicated Road Safety team and teachers, they laid down on the double yellow lines for a dramatic picture. The image will now be used to create posters that will be displayed in the community around the school in a bid to drive home the message to drivers.
YGG Aberdar is the latest school in a series to stage such photocalls, creating banners and signs that are then displayed to warn motorists – including parents and carers who are dropping off and picking up children – not to park on double yellow and zig-zag lines outside schools.
The issue became urgent in YGG Aberdar following an incident a few weeks ago when a bus lost control and collided with a garden wall because of the traffic chaos caused by people who had blocked the road outside the school parking on double yellow lines.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member for Transportation, Customer Care and Emergency Planning, said: “This is an issue that affects nearly every school and its surrounding community in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
“That is why we continue to deliver such an important and high profile campaign to prevent it.
“The simple fact of the matter is that zig zag and double yellow lines are outside schools for a reason. It is against the law to park on them.
“We all have to work together and take responsibility to ensure the marked areas remain clear so traffic can flow easily and safely around the school gates and pedestrians have visibility to cross the road safely."
24/10/11
Thanks to proactive and efficient policing the 2011 All-Wales Anti-Mobile Phone While Driving campaign ensured 1,000 motorists were targeted across the Country.The campaign, involving road safety partners in Wales, aimed to raise awareness among motorists about the real dangers involved when drivers break the law through phoning or texting at the wheel.
For two weeks in September and October, officers from all Welsh Forces carried out proactive patrols to target motorists who endanger other road users through this behaviour, and educated drivers on the penalties they face if caught.
During the campaign, officers detected a total of 1,000 mobile phone driving offences. In the Dyfed Powys force area, 429 notices were given, while in North Wales a total of 168 offenders were caught and apprehended.
South Wales Police issued 274 fixed penalty notices to law-breakers, while in Gwent a total of 129 were issued.
Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Constable Ian Arundale said: “These results highlight our commitment to addressing this serious issue. Research indicates that you are four times more likely to crash while driving and using a mobile phone. Obviously there is an element among the motoring public that continue to put themselves and others at risk by driving while using a handheld device.
“We would encourage drivers to switch off their phones while driving; no phone call is so urgent that it requires you to answer it and put yourself and others at risk. We will continue to work closely with our partners to raise awareness, educate and enforce those drivers who continue to flout the law.”
Susan Storch, Chair of Road Safety Wales added: “Driving while using a mobile phone is not only illegal but dangerous. It doesn’t just put your own life at risk but more importantly those of your passengers and other road users who may not have a say in your actions behind the wheel.
“We all need to take account of how we drive on our roads and driving a vehicle requires us to multi-task so anything above and beyond that needs to wait until we are safely parked up or until our journey has finished.
“While it’s saddening to see that so many motorists got caught using a mobile phone while driving it has also demonstrated the resolve of all the Road Safety Wales partners in tackling this issue and we will continue to work together to drive home the message that you need to switch off before you drive off.”
Pembrokeshire County Council Deputy Leader and County Councillor Cllr Jamie Adams said: “Taking your eyes off the road – even for just a split second – can have devastating consequences. The Council fully supports the police action in this important road safety campaign.”
11/10/11
A campaign, aimed at keeping older drivers driving for longer has been launched throughout North Wales. Established by the North Wales Road Safety Group, the Older Driver Campaign will encourage drivers over 60 to take part in a free driver assessment course which is now available via all six local authorities throughout north Wales.
Co-ordinated by Flintshire County Council, the course is delivered by ‘Mobility Driving Assessment Service' trained instructors, offering a two hour assessment and including a door to door service. Participants are able to use their own vehicle.The assessment will look at participants driving habits and suggest ways of improving their driving, giving them the skills to cope, and make it less stressful on today’s busy roads.
Chair of the North Wales Road Safety Group, Wendy Davies-Williams said: “As we get older we may see some changes - our reaction times get slower, decision making takes longer and our eyesight and hearing may begin to deteriorate. It is important that when these changes become recognisable it should be realised that driving will be affected. The assessment as well as years of experience can help keep you driving for life - it’s not a driving test, the ultimate aim of this campaign is to keep people driving safer for longer.
“So far throughout north Wales, older people have already seized this opportunity and have attended a course which they have found to be extremely beneficial. The feedback we as a Road Safety Group have received has been very positive.”
“This is about education and not enforcement,” said Gareth Jones, North Wales Police Road Safety Manager.
“Traffic conditions today are a world apart from what many drivers have been trained to deal with when they first learned to drive and most people should be able to carry on driving – more safely – by adapting their driving habits following the advice of a driving professional.
He added: “The number of collisions over the past few years which have involved drivers over 65 has become a cause for concern. In 2010, there were 233 collisions involving drivers over 65, which is the equivalent of 13.1% of all collisions. So far this year, there have been 150 collisions which is 16.2% of the number of all collisions which is quite worrying.
“Nobody’s driving licence will be threatened as a result of attending this particular assessment. To many older drivers, the ability to drive represents their independence.”
On the morning of the launch 71 year old, Peter Davies from Rhuallt completed the driving assessment and stated “I first passed my test 53 years ago and since then have driven in many different countries such as Dubai, USA, Europe and South Africa, after 53 years of driving you can pick up bad habits. This is a wonderful scheme, it is not a test, it is a friendly process to establish ones current driving skills, followed with helpful advice on areas which can be improved upon. Since first passing my driving test there has been no professional advice given about the standard of my driving, until I sat this driving assessment and I can now say I am more confident about driving and more aware of the improvements I can make in relation to my own driving skills.”
The Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment Service is committed to helping people remain mobile and recognise the importance of independence and being able to continue driving safely. North Wales Centre Manager, Gary Jones said: “We have welcomed the opportunity to work with the North Wales Road Safety Group to establish a network of specialist driving instructors who can now deliver the highest levels of assessment and advice to older drivers across North Wales.
“We should all recognise the changes that can come with the ageing process and how this can impact upon our safety as drivers. Through the Older Driver Programme we are able to ensure drivers receive the appropriate advice regarding their driving skills, thereby helping people drive safer for longer.”
To apply for the assessment, a form, which is available via all six local authority Road Safety Departments, needs to be completed and sent to Flintshire County Council, who will arrange the administration of the course.
03/10/11
A seatbelt ‘Options’ campaign offered people in Torfaen the chance to avoid a £60 fine by watching a hard-hitting presentation.
For the first time in Torfaen, Gwent Police worked alongside South Wales Fire & Rescue Service and Capita Symonds to encourage people to wear their seatbelts during the initiative.
Special Constables and Gwent Police Cadets stood on the roadside looking out motorists and their passengers not wearing seatbelts. Those who were found to be breaking the law were pulled over and given the ‘option’ of attending New Inn Fire Station to view a 20-minute seatbelt safety presentation instead of receiving a fixed penalty fine of £60.
The ‘Options’ campaign, organised by Gwent Police Special Inspector Dave Llewellyn, took place across Torfaen and saw a total of 30 people choosing to view the safety presentation. Only one driver elected to take a Fixed Penalty fine.
The seatbelt safety presentation included graphic DVD footage of what happens to an unbelted person following a collision and clearly made an impact on those who chose to watch it. One woman from Pontypool, who watched the presentation but wished to remain anonymous, said: “The presentation I saw really does make you think. “Some of the video clips showing the consequences of not wearing a seatbelt are not very nice to watch, but they certainly get the message across. “I was annoyed that I was stopped for not wearing my seatbelt but in hindsight I’m glad I saw the presentation – I will definitely be belting up from now on.”
Torfaen Partnerships Sergeant Lyndon John, said: “The ‘Options’ campaign emphasises the need for education as well as enforcement in this area. “Considering the short timescale of the operation, the high number of attendees shows that some motorists are still choosing not to wear seatbelts despite the well-publicised dangers. “Hopefully those who watched the presentation today will reflect upon what they saw and make sure they wear seatbelts in future – and pass the message on to their friends and family.”
Ashley Collins, Watch Manager in the Fire Service Road Safety Team, said: “This is the first time the All-Wales ‘Options’ campaign has been run in Torfaen and we have received excellent feedback from members of the public who have been stopped and asked to watch the presentation. “I hope they will now have a better understanding of the dangers of not belting up.”
Helen Davidson, Capita Symonds Road Safety Manager in Torfaen, said: “Some people were a bit upset about being stopped, but negative attitudes were changed to positive after they watched the presentation. Through education, this campaign acts as the first step in saving lives.”
29/9/11
As detailed road casualty figures for Great Britain are published, RoSPA welcomes the significant drops in death and injury but cautions that the success is partly due to unusual economic and weather factors which may not continue in coming years. Figures published by the Department for Transport today show that 1,850 people were killed in reported road accidents in Great Britain during 2010, a reduction of 372 (17 per cent) on the previous year’s figure. A further 22,660 people were seriously injured (a reduction of eight per cent) and 184,138 people were slightly injured (a reduction of six per cent).
Despite the overall reduction in casualties, there was a disappointing rise in the number of cyclists killed - to 111, an increase of seven (seven per cent) on 2009. The number of cyclists seriously injured also increased, by two per cent to 2,660. The number of casualties in heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) also rose: there was a 100 per cent increase in HGV occupants who were killed - from 14 in 2009 in 28 in 2010 - and a five per cent increase in those who were seriously injured - from 175 in 2009 to 184 in 2010.
The number of children who were killed on the road fell by a third, from 81 in 2009 to 55 in 2010. Deaths and injuries in other high risk groups also fell. Passenger deaths in cars with young drivers fell by 36 per cent from 145 to 93 and young driver deaths fell by 17 per cent from 191 to 158. Pedestrian deaths fell by 19 per cent from 500 to 405 and motorcycle user deaths by 15 per cent from 472 to 403.
The number of people killed in accidents in which a driver was using a mobile phone increased from 15 in 2009 to 28 in 2010.
Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety, said: “In 2010, road deaths on Great Britain’s roads fell well below 2,000 for the first time. This was a fantastic achievement. However, there is still more to be done; if all the reported road accidents in 2010 had been prevented, this would have saved almost £15billion - crucial given the current economic climate.
“During the last three years we have had unusually large drops in the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads. This very welcome result is due to the focus we have had on road safety, but also to some external factors such as the economic downturn, falling traffic levels and heavy snowfalls over the last two winters. We need to consider how we can ensure that the major reductions in death and injury do not stop or, even worse, start to increase if the economy picks up and we have milder winters.
“The Strategic Framework for Road Safety along with funding and political support for road safety will be even more important if activity on the road increases over the next few years otherwise we may lose many of the road safety gains made recently.
“And, as good as the reductions in young driver related deaths are, we need to realise that this is partly due to a fall in the proportion of young people holding driving licences and that young driver accidents still account for a quarter of all road deaths.”
27/9/11
Year 6 pupils at Georgetown Primary School recently had a new experience in cycle training. Instead of the usual cycle proficiency training lessons on the yard, they were trained on the roads outside the school.
The National Standards Cycle Course, arranged by Maria Barsi-Mills, the Road Safety Office for Blaenau Gwent, was delivered by instructors from Cycle Training Wales and funded through Blaenau Gwent’s Road Safety Grant from the Welsh Government.
BGCBC is committed to getting more people to cycle, as it is a cheap, healthy, and sustainable means of transport.
This cycling course at Georgetown Primary enabled the children to gain confidence in riding their bikes in real conditions on today’s roads. They learned about observation, safe road positioning and giving signals. Not only did it teach them to ride a bike to National Standards, but also introduced them to cycling as an everyday fun activity and an alternative mode of transport.
26/9/11
The plan, announced today by Alex Attwood, Northern Ireland’s Environment Minister, is for a reduction from the current legal limit of 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. An even lower limit - of 20mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood - is proposed for inexperienced drivers and those who drive for a living.
Kevin Clinton, head of road safety at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said: “RoSPA has long campaigned for a lower drink-drive limit across the whole of the UK, which no government has yet been willing to implement. We support Northern Ireland's proposal and hope that if it goes ahead the rest of the UK would follow its lead. A lower limit would save lives.”
Other proposals outlined by Mr Attwood are for:
- A graduated penalty regime including fixed penalties for first offences at lower limits
- Random breath testing powers which would enable police to breathalyse drivers without the need to have reasonable suspicion that the driver had taken alcohol
- Automatic referral of offenders to an approved drink-drive rehabilitation scheme
- Removal of the right, in certain circumstances, for a driver to ask for a blood or urine sample to replace a breath test sample.
The Department of the Environment intends to have the proposed drink-drive legislation ready for public consultation by March 2012.
22/9/11
The four Welsh Police Forces, led by Dyfed-Powys Police, in partnership with Pembrokeshire Local Authority and Road Safety Wales, is launching the All-Wales Anti-Mobile Phone Driving Campaign.
The event, will be held at the Merlin Theatre in Pembrokeshire College, Haverfordwest on 22 September 2011, and will also included the famous Bluebird that was driven by Mal
colm Campbell on Pendine Sands.
Despite the law change in February 2007 where mobile phone driving results in three penalty points and a £60 fine, drivers in Wales are still persisting with this dangerous activity and breaking the law.
Police patrols to target mobile phone driving will increase across Welsh roads for the duration of the enforcement campaign, which runs from 22 September to 5 October, to promote the safety message and raise awareness of the dangers and penalties among motorists.
Ian Arundale, Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police said: "The All Wales Anti Mobile Phone Driving Campaign is aimed at raising awareness among drivers about the real dangers involved when driving while using a mobile phone. "Driving and mobile phones do not mix. Using a mobile phone while driving makes you four times more likely to have an accident and a phone call isn’t worth the risk.
"When you’re using a handheld device at the wheel you’re distracted and your reactions will be affected. It only takes a momentary lapse in concentration before you could become the cause of a serious collision or be involved in a fatal road traffic collision. "We want the use of a mobile phone at the wheel to be seen as just as reckless and socially unacceptable as drink driving and anyone caught using their mobile phone while driving will be prosecuted".
"Our message to them is that it’s NOT safe at all. You run the risk of killing yourself, your passengers, and other innocent road users. There will be a zero tolerance towards drivers using handheld devices while driving and all the police forces in Wales will be increasing their targeting of this illegal and unacceptable behaviour during the campaign.”
Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire Local Authority Jamie Adams added: "Taking your eyes off the road – even for a split second – can have devastating consequences.”
Chair of Road Safety Wales, Sue Storch, added: "Road Safety Wales partners have been supporting our colleagues in the Police Service throughout this campaign by publicising the dangers of using a mobile device while driving. We will continue to raise awareness of this issue and work closely with our colleagues in future campaigns.”
Figures for Dyfed-Powys Police area:
2010: 2,122 Endorsable tickets for the offence of misusing a mobile phone
2011: To date, 1,352 Endorsable tickets
13/9/11
Katie Sands of Merthyr Tydfil is the latest recipient of the Pass Plus Cymru quarterly prize, her name was drawn form hundreds of candidates who had returned feedback forms following participation in the scheme
Overjoyed with her £250 cheque which was just in time for a pending holiday trip, Katie said she felt the course had really improved her driving skills and she had enjoyed the whole process.
Katie Sands is pictured with Alyn Wayman Fire Service presenter for Pass Plus Cymru, Cllr Tony Rogers, Cabinet Member for Customer, Technical and environmental Services and Pauline Halliday Pass Plus Cymru Presenter.
13/9/11
Five years on from the introduction of a new child car seat law, there is still huge demand from parents for information about how to keep their children safe on the road, says the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
More than 129,000 visits to RoSPA’s child car seats website - www.childcarseats.org.uk - were recorded in August - an average of more than 4,000 visits per day. The only time the website has seen more traffic was in the weeks around the introduction of the new law, which happened on September 18, 2006.
Michelle Harrington, RoSPA’s road safety manager for Wales, said: “Even though it is five years since the child car seat law came into force, we still need to talk to parents about choosing and using car seats. People are starting families all the time and they are looking for information about what the law requires and about the types of seat available for babies. Likewise, the parents of toddlers and older children are looking for advice about when to move their children from one seat to another.
“The safest way for a child to travel in a car is in a child seat that is correct for his or her weight and size, and the law also requires this. Furthermore, the importance of properly fitting a child seat cannot be over stated, so that it works as it is designed to in a crash. We urge parents and carers - including grandparents who might drive their grandchildren - to ensure that a child’s seat is compatible with all the cars it will be used in, checking with the seat and car manufacturer if necessary and seeking expert help on fitting, perhaps from a retailer. The local council may also be able to recommend places or events where you can get the seat checked. We also encourage parents to check that the seat is fitted correctly before every journey, especially if they are regularly taking it in and out of the car.”
The law for children aged under three years in cars:
- Babies and toddlers MUST use a child seat appropriate for their weight. The ONLY exception to this law is for licensed taxis or private hire cars, in which under-threes may travel unrestrained in the rear if a child seat is not available. This exception has been allowed for practical rather than safety reasons and RoSPA advises that parents look for ways to make a seat available.
- Rear-facing child seats MUST NOT be used in the front passenger seat if there is an active frontal airbag. If you are using a forward-facing child seat, see what your car's handbook says about frontal airbags - the advice can vary. RoSPA also recommends checking with your insurer regarding airbags.
The law for children aged three years and over in cars:
- Until they are 135cm tall (approximately 4ft 5in) or 12 years old - whichever comes first - children MUST use an appropriate child seat, whether travelling in the front or rear of a car. The exceptions in the rear of a vehicle are: in licensed taxis or private hire cars; if the child is travelling a short distance for a reason of unexpected necessity; if there are two occupied child restraints, which prevent the fitment of a third; or, if seat belts are not fitted. Planning journeys in advance is a good way to avoid having to rely on an exemption and to ensure that children are carried safely.
Child car seats are designed and tested for children in different weight ranges and that’s what parents should be checking when they are selecting an “appropriate” seat.
RoSPA advises against purchasing second-hand car seats because: you cannot be sure of their history, such as whether they have already been in an accident; the fitting instructions are often missing; and in some cases they might not comply with the latest standards.
When the new law was introduced, it was estimated that the move could prevent about 2,000 injuries a year among children on Britain’s roads. Indeed, the number of under-12s injured in cars has fallen from 7,034 in 2005 to 5,449 in 2009, although there has been no analysis of the part played by the child car seat law.
The creation of www.childcarseats.org.uk was funded by the Department for Transport. The award-winning website includes an overview of the law and the types of child seat available, advice about positioning and fitting child seats and RoSPA’s popular Carrying Children Safely film.
12/9/11
A safety campaign is being launched to help protect school crossing patrol officers. Carmarthenshire county council’s road safety unit is launching a ‘Stop Means Stop’ campaign following an increased number of incidents involving motorists failing to stop for lollipop men and women.
Starting in September to coincide with the new school term, the “Stop Means Stop” initiative is aimed at some drivers who fail to stop or are rude and abusive to school crossing patrols. The campaign will be backed up with radio advertising, school banners, posters and leaflets.
Road safety manager Keith Griffiths said: “School crossing patrol officers play a vital role by ensuring school children are provided with a safe route to and from school. They should be able to do this without fear of intimidation and threatening behaviour from some inconsiderate motorists.
“The school crossing patrol team are amongst the most committed group of people that continue to play a very important role in keeping our community a safe and friendly place. The message is quite simple. All road users must stop when a school crossing patrol officer asks them to do so.
“Drivers should allow a little extra journey time if their route takes them through a patrolled area - and be prepared to slow down and stop when requested to do so by a patrol officer."
School crossing patrols were established in the UK in 1954 to assist children cross the road on their way to or from school safely. The famous ‘lollipop stick’ was designed so that details of a vehicle which failed to stop for the school crossing patrol could be chalked on the black panel on the stick head. These details were then forwarded to the local police for them to progress.
Today, every school crossing patrol officer is issued with a notebook to record detailed information about any motorist that fails to stop or continues to drive by when it is obvious that the patrol officer has asked them to stop from the side of the road.
They are encouraged to make a note of the registration number, make, model and colour of vehicle, time of the incident and gender of the driver. Whilst the method may have changed in recent times, the information is still forwarded onto Dyfed Powys Police so they can take appropriate action.
7/9/11
A project to cut the number of shorter car journeys in south Wales is being launched. About 63,000 homes in Cardiff and Penarth will be offered personalised travel advice to reduce those taking the school run and short commutes.
The £4m four-year scheme from the Welsh Government and transport charity Sustrans Cymru will eventually extend to Barry, Caerphilly and Pontypridd. Organisers say even cutting car use for one day a week makes a big difference. The scheme will encourage use of public transport, cycling and walking as alternatives.
The launch at Ysgol Melin Gruffydd, Cardiff is timed to start with the autumn school term, which has led to a surge in peak-time traffic across Wales. One in five cars on the road at 08:50 on a weekday is doing the school run, according to sustainable transport charity Sustrans Cymru.
Director Lee Waters said: "Many pupils are driven from their front doors to the school gates yet the average journey to school for primary aged pupils is just 1.6 miles (2.5km).
"Given the right information about alternative ways to travel, more people could leave their cars at home.
"We'll work with people at school, work and home, helping them to make changes to their daily travel choices when and where it suits them.
"If each family replaced one car journey a week with a more sustainable alternative it can make a big difference."
After working with Cardiff council and the Vale of Glamorgan council - in Penarth - in the first phase of the project, the intention is then to deliver it to Barry, Caerphilly and Pontypridd. It will then be taken to other sustainable transport centres in Wales, beginning with Mon a Menai in the north west next year. Eventually, it will reach more than 100,000 households across Wales, as well as workplaces and schools.
Local Government and Communities Minister Carl Sargeant said: "We are fully committed to delivering a truly sustainable transport system across Wales and by providing people with realistic and enjoyable alternatives to the car we can change people's attitudes towards transport".
He added that the benefits of using sustainable transport are wide-ranging, from "enjoying healthy exercise as you walk or cycle to work to reducing congestion in our towns and cities".
Lisa Ford, executive member for traffic and transportation at Cardiff council, said the council was proud to be involved and hoped the project would "help people consider how they travel and as a result will use forms of sustainable travel for more journeys."
Sustrans says it has already seen great results from similar projects elsewhere in the UK, typically seeing a cut in car trips by around 10%.
31/8/11
Residents in Powys who use a child car seat have the opportunity in September to have them checked out by the county council for free to ensure that they are fitted correctly.
Powys County Council’s Road Safety Unit has arranged five car seat check days across the county. The checks, which start on Monday 5 September, will take place in Brecon, Builth Wells, Newtown, Welshpool and Ystradgynlais.
Last year, the council checked 115 child car seats and found an alarming 92 were incorrectly fitted. 57 per cent of the seats checked had a minor problem that needed to be rectified, which included tightening the seatbelt.
12 per cent of the seats had major faults, which included the seatbelt being incorrectly routed and six per cent of the seats were unsuitable for the vehicle or the child and should not have been used.
Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Environment and Regulation, said: "I encourage anyone who uses a child car seat to make use of check days. These checks will not cost you anything and could ultimately save your child’s life.”
Sarah Morris, the council’s Senior Road Safety Officer, said: "Every year around 100,000 children in the UK are involved in collisions and the fitting of their car seat can have a serious impact on whether or not they are injured. "We check the car seat to see if it is suitable for your child and if it is compatible with your vehicle. If the seat or the harness needs to be adjusted, our officers are trained to show parents or carers how to fit the seat correctly."
The free checks, which only take a few minutes to complete, will be taking place between 9am-4pm at the following locations:
- Co-Op Garage Car Park, Builth Wells – Monday 5 September
- Tesco Car Park, Newtown – Tuesday 6 September
- Co-Op Car Park, Ystradgynlais – Wednesday 7 September
- Tesco Car Park, Welshpool – Thursday 8 September
- Tourist Information Centre Car Park, Brecon – Friday 9 September
For any further information about these days or any aspect of in-car safety, telephone the Road Safety Unit on 01597 826637.
11/8/11
A visit to Caerphilly County Borough Council’s road safety marquee at this year’s Big Cheese Festival turned out to be a prize-winning experience for one local resident.Shannon Bevan from Abertysswg entered a special road safety competition during her visit and became the lucky winner of a new mountain bike.
The Big Cheese is always an important event in the road safety calendar and this year there were a record number of visitors at the team’s popular marquee.
Almost 400 people entered the free competition to win the mountain bike. They had to answer road safety questions and complete a bike related word search and the first correct answer drawn out of the box following the event was the winner.
Shannon was presented with her prize by Cllr Rob Gough, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, Engineering and Transport and Terry Shaw, Head of Engineering Services. She was absolutely thrilled to have won the bike!
Cllr Rob Gough said, “I was delighted to see so many people visit the road safety marquee at this year’s Big Cheese festival, which gave people the opportunity to learn some very important road safety messages”.
Hundreds of people of all ages took part in activities at the marquee such as finding faults on two very dilapidated bikes, which gave the road safety team an ideal opportunity to remind the public of the importance of wearing a helmet.
Hundreds of children also made badges with a road safety theme, which they took away with them reminding them of the day’s message.
If you would like to have further information on road safety activities in your area please contact the CCBC Road Safety Team on 01495 235402
10/8/11
Greenfield School has received a generous donation of a number of bikes suitable for children with additional learning needs by the Taff Bargoed Development Trust. Ian Everett-Woolston (Community and Heritage Trails Warden) flagged up the need and the trust took on the mantel and offered bikes in their possession for use at the school. The Trust are very pro-active in accommodating additional needs groups and individuals and see this as an ideal way of broadening the bikes availability.
Howard Jackson, Manager for Taff Bargoed Development Trust said: “We are donating the cycles to Greenfield School in the safe knowledge that the cycles will certainly be of use and that much enjoyment and a valuable experience will be gained from the subsequent use of the cycles. The Trust is more than satisfied that one of its aims of providing social inclusion will be met through the donation of the cycles.”
Also on board with this project is Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council's Road Safety Officer, Jill Harper, together with firefighters Aeden Oneill and Adrian Thomas from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. In partnership, both organisations have accessed funding and supplied the relevant training. The bikes are maintained and serviced free of charge by TCT (Taff Cycle Training), a company formed by Aeden and Adrian delivering National standards training, MTB (Mountain Bike) guiding and tuition and cycle maintenance courses.
Before being presented to the children by Colin Fenn (Trustee of Taff Bargoed Development Trust) Peter Toomey (Support Worker MTCBC) and his Transition into Employment project trainees ensured the bikes were cleaned and ready for the presentation.
Councillor Tony Rogers, Cabinet member for Customer Services - Technical and Environment commented: “ This is a very exciting project,not only will the children from Greenfield School be able to use the cycles but the wider community. Plans are being developed to use them on the Taff Trail, at local events and with older members of the community. The pleasure on the children’s faces when they are on these cycles’ shows their true value”.
For further information on this project contact Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council's Road Safety Officer on (01685) 726286.
8/8/11
Pupils from across Rhondda Cynon Taf had a wheely-great time at the launch of the fourth high-profile road safety campaign starring local heroine Sophie Evans.
Be Road Safe – Use Your Head and Wear A Helmet is a fun, colourful and appealing campaign launched by the Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Road Safety Unit in order to ensure all young residents wear a cycle helmet whenever they use a bike.
Sophie, currently starring as Dorothy in Lord Lloyd-Webbers West End musical Wizard of Oz, took time out from her busy schedule to support the campaign as she recognises the importance of encouraging youngsters to protect themselves.
Be Road Safe – Use Your Head and Wear A Helmet is the fourth and last message in the Be Road Safe series with Sophie Evans. Previous appeals have focused on using the green cross code and holding hands when crossing the road, wearing a seat belt or using a child car seat and ensuring pedestrians turn off mobiles and other hand-held gadgets and concentrate on their surroundings.
Sophie was the special guest at the launch of Be Road Safe – Use Your Head and Wear A Helmet, at the Safety Zone in Treforest, which was also attended by Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Road Safety, the Road Safety Team and pupils from schools across the county borough.
Sandra Page, who has been a School Crossing Patrol officer at Cymmer Infants for 24 years was a very special guest on the day and presented with gifts and cards to celebrate her exceptional dedication to the role.
Also at the launch were South Wales Fire & Rescue Service, South Wales Police, ROSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) the Recycle Cycle Team at Pontypridd High, Halfords and local councillors.
After enjoying a tour of the Safety Zone and an introduction to the campaign, guess heard from speakers and saw a safe cycling demonstration. The event was also used as a chance to commend youngsters who have excelled in the National Standards 1 and 2 Training delivered in all schools by the Road Safety Unit.
Throughout the year, pupils who have completed the training have been entered into a draw, the results of which were announced at the launch.
The six winners were presented with a bike and essential safety equipment, including a helmet.
They were:
• Brooke Thomas - YGG Pont Sion Norton
• Jordan Jones - Parc Primary
• Courtney Loveridge & Sophie Bennett – Cilfynydd Primary
• Nico Watkins – Penpych Primary
• Keiron Harris – Penrhiwceiber Primary
Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Road Safety, said: “The Be Road Safe campaign has been a huge success as it has allowed us, with the support of Sophie Evans, to engage with all generations in a family and encourage road safety.
“It forms part of the wider work we are delivering on a daily basis in schools across Rhondda Cynon Taf in order to create safe, confident cyclists, pedestrians and motorists of the future.
“The launch of the final event was a huge success and congratulations must be given to the pupils and Sandra Page, who were awarded for their efforts and achievements on the day.
“Big thanks must also be given to the many partner agencies and organisations who have worked with the Road Safety Team to ensure this campaign, and the wider road safety work delivered, is effective.”
5/8/11
The Monmouthshire Road Safety Forum is working hard to keep people safer on our roads.
During July Gwent Police, South Wales Fire & Rescue Service and Monmouthshire County Council Road Safety Team worked closely together to encourage people to wear their seatbelts.
A seat belt “Options” initiative was carried out on four separate days throughout the County. Motorists and their passengers who were found to be breaking the law were given the “Option” of attending the local Fire Station to view a hard-hitting seatbelt safety presentation instead of receiving a fixed penalty ticket of £60. The presentation included graphic footage of what happens to an unbelted person following a collision and clearly made an impact on the viewers:
• “I never realised before how much damage could be caused by just one person who hadn’t belted up”.
• “I now know why it’s so important to wear a seatbelt even on short journeys”.
• “I’m certainly going to make sure I always belt up the kids in future”.
Geoff Smith, Monmouthshire Partnerships Inspector, reflected,
“Options” is an educational programme which clearly shows the dangers caused by not wearing seatbelts. It gives offenders a unique chance to reconsider both attitudes and behaviour and the only cost to them is a maximum of 30 minutes of their time. Attending the presentation effectively cancels out a £60 fine”
Carolyn Derosaire, Road Safety Officer for Monmouthshire added,
“This “Options” event went a long way to showing why we have seatbelt laws. Every year, around 300 lives are saved just by belting up. The “Options” message is clear: belt up every trip.”
Mike Hill, Watch Manager in the Fire Service Road Safety Team, said
“These events provide a great opportunity to work alongside our Police and Road Safety colleagues to engage with motorists in promoting the benefits of wearing a seatbelt. “South Wales Fire & Rescue Service spends a large proportion of their time attending road collisions and any means by which people can be more road safety aware is an absolute bonus. “After watching the presentation, there was an overwhelming acceptance of this important reminder to wear a seatbelt, and an undertaking to always belt up in future.”
The Options campaign took place in Chepstow, Abergavenny, Caldicot and Monmouth, and saw a total of 84 people choosing to view the safety presentation, whilst only 5 elected to take a Fixed Penalty Ticket, and one person was reported for summons.
2/8/11
Police have described as "alarming" the number of people arrested as part of a summer crackdown on drink-driving. A total of 463 arrests were made for drink and drugs related offences across Wales in June.
In north Wales, two people were found to be about four times over the limit. North Wales Police Deputy Chief Constable Ian Shannon said "it beggars belief that people take such risks and drive having consumed so much alcohol".
A total of 18,345 breath tests were carried out in June which resulted in 96 people (1.6 %) testing positive in north Wales; 87 (2.1%) in the Dyfed-Powys force area; 192 (4.8%) in south Wales; and 69 (1.5%) in Gwent Police's area. There were also 17 arrests for driving under the influence of drugs.
Mr Shannon said: "The four Welsh forces have been stepping up the pressure this summer to deter people from driving whilst under the influence of alcohol and drugs. A total of 463 arrests for drink and drug related offences during this campaign is alarming. In north Wales there were examples of drivers being arrested for driving after consuming so much alcohol that they provided readings of 147 and 138 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. When you consider the drink drive limit is 35 microgrammes it beggars belief that people take such risks and drive having consumed so much alcohol. " He said the campaign will continue throughout the summer.
Gareth Jones, North Wales Police's road safety manager, said people are still being killed or seriously injured as a "direct result of a selfish minority of motorists who drink and drive despite the warnings".
North Wales carried out 5,715 tests with 96 (1.6 %) positive
Dyfed-Powys Police, 4,213 tests, with 87 (2.1%) positive
South Wales Police, 3,920 tests with 192 (4.8%) positive
Gwent Police, 4,497 tests with 69 (1.5%) positive
Seventeen arrests for driving under the influence of drugs
Source: All Wales Summer Anti Drink/Drugs Driving Campaign, June 2011
28/7/11
The 4th Annual JRSO Get-Together for Vale of Glamorgan Primary Schools was recently held at the Memorial Hall & Theatre in Barry. Over 60 children from 10 primary schools attended one of the biggest events in the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Road Safety Unit calendar. The Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSOs) from each participating school were joined by teachers & helpers for this special occasion to highlight road safety concerns outside their own schools and to suggest some possible solutions in tackling them, as well as celebrating the success of their achievements over the past year.
It was a particularly special occasion this year as the JRSO Scheme has recently celebrated its 33rd member school joining since it began operating in the Vale of Glamorgan back in 2004/05 - with just 6 schools!
The day included each group of JRSOs making their own presentations of what they have achieved at their own schools to the captive audience; visiting demonstrations by crews from Barry Fire Station, who gave a tour of their fire engine and showed interested parties some of the equipment they used for rescuing people trapped in their vehicles after a road traffic collision; officers from the South Wales Police Road Safety Team in a squad car complete with flashing lights and siren, showing some of the items they use when on duty out on the area’s roads, including a breathalyser and a stinger device; and Phill Whaley from Cardiff Bus showing prospective students how to travel safely on a school bus and when out & about in the summer holidays.
This was then followed by a well-earned buffet lunch, by way of thanks to everyone who contributed to the event and to road safety in the Vale of Glamorgan in general. Each of the JRSOs was presented with goodie-bags as a souvenir of the day to thank them for all their efforts and to remind them to keep spreading the word of road safety!
The Junior Road Safety Officer (JRSO) Scheme is run by the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Road Safety Team as part of a national scheme, which empowers children to highlight road safety issues within their schools. This is achieved by them raising awareness amongst fellow pupils, parents, teachers & their local community under the auspices of the Council’s Road Safety Officers.
Several older primary age children are chosen each year in each member school and are given a JRSO uniform of a cap, badge & hi-vis jacket, together with a folder full of ideas for running competitions and assemblies on a road safety theme in their own schools. With 33 schools already participating, it is eventually hoped that all primary schools will have their own Junior Road Safety Officers in the next few years. Mr John Rogers, JRSO Scheme Organiser said,
‘Yet again the JRSO Get-Together was a huge success. I would like to thank everyone for contributing to such a worthwhile event. The JRSOs were a credit to themselves and the schools they proudly represent and their energy and enthusiasm in spreading the word of road safety was simply amazing. Keep up the great work you are doing!!’
If any primary school is interested in taking part in the Junior Road Safety Officer (JRSO) Scheme, please contact John Rogers on 01446 704841 or e-mail JDRogers@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
25/7/11
Green cones are appearing outside schools across the Vale of Glamorgan in a bid to make roads near schools safer for pupils.Indiscriminate and dangerous parking near schools can put the lives of children at risk. The ‘Green Cone’ scheme involves cones being placed along the roads outside schools to reinforce existing markings, such as yellow lines and zig zags, to help make crossing the roads safer.
Cllr Jeffrey James, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation, said: "We introduced the green cone scheme in the Vale because of growing concerns for the safety of school pupils crossing congested roads to get to and from their school gates.
"Many schools across Wales and the rest of the UK use the green cones and the scheme has helped reduce the amount of traffic directly outside schools as car drivers find safe, alternative spaces to park away from the school gates."
Cogan, Sully, Ysgol Sant Curig and Victoria primary schools and Stanwell Comprehensive School have joined the scheme, introduced by a partnership of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, the Welsh Assembly Government, school staff and South Wales Police.
Several other Vale schools are also considering introducing the scheme as news of its success spreads.
Inspector Chris Owen, of South Wales Police, said: "This scheme has been proven to help provide children with a safer route to school and we are pleased that local schools have been able to implement it.
"We fully support this scheme and my officers will enforce it by issuing Fixed Penalty Notices whenever necessary."
24/6/11
The annual Illustrated Poem Competition, jointly organised by the Road Safety Team of Capita
Symonds and Heddlu Gwent Police on behalf of the Gwent Road Safety Forum, has been a resounding success this year, with 679 entries received.
Pupils in schools across Gwent were asked to write and illustrate a poem outlining the importance and correct use of seatbelts. The entries showed that they had thoroughly researched the subject before commencing work. Guests at the event commented that some of the themes investigated were very poignant, and that the poems showed great maturity and empathy.
The winning entries were awarded cash prizes by Chief Superintendent Paul Symes at a special ceremony at Newport Civic Centre during Child Safety Week. Other VIP guests were Cllr Mrs Margaret Cornelius, Mayor of Newport with her Consort, The Chairman of Monmouthshire, Cllr Brian Hood with his Lady, Mrs Jeanette Hood, and the Deputy Mayor of Torfaen, Cllr Wayne Tomlinson.
Thanking the young people for taking part and also their teachers for encouragement, Chief Superintendent Symes said, “The Police and our partner agencies believe that taking part in competitions like this fosters a better understanding and recognition of the importance of wearing a seatbelt. My colleagues and I know from experience that many lives have been saved and injury severity reduced by the use of a seatbelt. I hope the young people here will pass on this message to their friends and families.”
Penny Thorpe, Principal Road Safety Officer with Capita Symonds said, “There were even more poems submitted for the competition this year than for last year’s bumper entry. Yet again the standard is very high with the young people coming up with original ideas to promote the use of seatbelts”.
JUNIOR |
| |
NAME |
Prize |
SCHOOL |
AUTHORITY |
Winner |
Aimee Hill |
£100 |
Llanyrafon Primary |
Torfaen |
Runners Up 1 |
Harry Morgan |
£50 |
Rhiw-syr-Dafydd |
Caerphilly |
Runners Up 2 |
Emily-Mae Herring |
£50 |
Georgetown |
Blaenau Gwent |
BEST SCHOOL |
Raglan Primary, Monmouthshire - £50
|
SENIOR |
|
NAME |
Prize |
SCHOOL |
AUTHORITY |
Winner |
Caitlin Harris |
£100 |
Glyncoed Comprehensive |
Blaenau Gwent |
Runners Up 1 |
Katelun Phillips |
£50 |
Glyncoed Comprehensive |
Blaenau Gwent |
Runners Up 2 |
Eloise Bond |
£50 |
Caldicot |
Monmouthshire |
BEST SCHOOL |
Hartridge High School, Newport - £50 |
30/6/11
Annual deaths on Great Britain’s roads have fallen below 2,000 for the first time since records began, proving the value and effectiveness of having a strong road safety strategy, says the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
Provisional figures published by the Department for Transport today reveal that 1,857 people were killed in reported road accidents during 2010, a reduction of 365 (16 per cent) on the previous year’s figure. A total of 22,660 people were seriously injured in reported road accidents (a reduction of eight per cent) and 184,138 people were slightly injured (a reduction of six per cent).
Despite the overall reduction in casualties, there was a very disappointing rise in the number of cyclists killed - to 111, an increase of seven (seven per cent) on 2009. The number of cyclists seriously injured also increased, by two per cent to 2,660. There was also a disappointing 24 per cent increase in goods vehicle occupants killed - up from 50 to 62.
The number of children who were killed fell by a third (from 81 to 55). There were also reductions in the number of children who were injured.
Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety, said: “That road accident deaths have fallen below 2,000 for the first time since records began in the 1920s is a significant achievement, and particularly considering that much of the reduction has happened in very recent history - in the mid-1980s, for example, road deaths stood at around 5,500 a year.
“This achievement proves the value and effectiveness of a comprehensive road safety strategy which has strong government leadership and involves the joint working of the road safety community. We obviously need to understand fully the reasons for the significant reduction in deaths from 2009 to 2010; it might be that the economic downturn has had a part to play, through a reduction in traffic and lower speeds. But there is no doubt that Britain’s world-leading strategic approach to road safety has provided the context for continuous casualty reduction for several decades.
“Of course, the figures also highlight the need to continue this good work over the next 10 years in order to avoid the danger that the downwards trend is reversed. Maintaining and improving on this success over coming years, with less money and fewer staff for road safety, plus increasing traffic as the economy improves, will be the challenge.
“The rise in cyclist casualties is clearly disappointing. As the number of people cycling increases, we must find ways to make the roads safer for them, through a combination of road designs that make cycling safer and better education and training for both motorists and cyclists.”
The 2010 figures confirm that casualty reduction targets set in 2000 have been surpassed.
Last month, RoSPA welcomed the Government’s publication of the Strategic Framework for Road Safety. The framework forecasts that road deaths will fall to between 1,530 and 1,770 by 2020. Kevin Clinton said: “We are not far off achieving the upper end of this forecast already, but this does not mean we should relax on road safety. Instead, it shows that we can and should be much more ambitious in our efforts.”
The provisional road casualty figures for 2010 are available on the Department for Transport’s website.
23/6/11
Ysgol y Graig Primary School, winners of the annual Merthyr Tydfil Primary Road Safety Quiz have successfully represented Merthyr in the South Wales Police Road Safety Quiz held at Bridgend Police Head Quarters. Competing against neighbouring authorities in a nail biting finale including two tie break questions the team members, Shaun Chambers, Alex Powell, Georgia Griffiths, Wendy Wong and Holli Jehu battled through to take the title making them the first Merthyr team to win this competition.
Jill Harper, Road Safety Officer for Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council who runs the inter authority competition said “I am so pleased for the team and their school. Many schools took part in the local competition and I think this win will give great encouragement to children entering next year. The Road Safety Quiz has always been an ideal way to get primary age children to think about Road Safety not only for the participants but also the schools they represent”.
Wayne Tucker South Wales Police Road Safety Manager and Quiz Master for the event said “it is important that children realise from a young age that road safety is vital when using roads, whether for walking, cycling or when in a car”.
Our thanks go to Tony and Helen Webb of A1 Tachograph Services Ltd, Merthyr residents themselves, for their kind sponsorship of this years prizes.
23/06/2011 A campaign to crackdown on drink driving over the month of June has seen over 2,000 breath tests being administered in North Wales in the first two weeks.
So far, *2,133 people have been breath tested as part of the All Wales Summer Anti Drink and Drug Driving campaign which was launched in Caernarfon on Wednesday, 1st of June. In the first two weeks of the month-long campaign, 47 arrests have been made after drivers failed breath tests in roadside stop checks.
Inspector Alan Hughes from North Wales Police’s Roads Policing Unit said: "We announced at the start of this campaign that we would be focusing our efforts to target drink and drug drivers. “Despite that warning, in the first two weeks of the campaign, 47 motorists have been arrested in north Wales following a road side breath test. If convicted, each will be disqualified from driving for at least 12 months, face a heavy fine and many could lose their jobs.”
Recently a 28-year-old man from Rugby was arrested for being three times over the drink drive limit. He has now been charged and bailed to appear before Holyhead Magistrates on Thursday 7th July.
Inspector Hughes added: “Officers will continue to work hard to catch those responsible. Drink drivers are a danger to themselves, their passengers and other road users. The campaign will continue, please heed the warning."
*The figures used were from 1st – 15th June
North Wales Police is encouraging anyone with information about people who are drinking or driving to report them by calling 101 (if in Wales), 0845 607 1001 (Welsh language line), 0845 607 1002 (English Language Line) or Crimestoppers Wales anonymously via 0800 555 111.
23/6/11
It was another successful year for the Bridgend Road safety quiz, with many talented youngsters competing for the chance to get to the finals. A new location this year, saw the quiz held at the Porthcawl Grand pavilion, allowing those lucky few to take advantage of the location and enjoy an ice cream after the stress of the quiz.
The event ran smoothly due to the hard work of Simon Ladbroke and Gail Calford of BCBC road safety, Gemma Matthews and John Hughes who acted as quiz master.
15 schools were chosen to go through to the finals on the 16th of June to compete to be named the winners.
Those schools in the finals were:
| Pencoed Primary |
Garth Primary |
| Brackla Primary |
Caerau Primary |
| Pen-Y-Bont Primary |
Trelales Primary |
| Mae– Y-Haul Primary |
Mynydd Cynffig Junior |
| Oldcastle Primary |
Nottage Primary |
| Llangewydd Junior |
Newton Primary |
| Brynmenyn Primary |
Ysgol Y Ferch O`r Sger Primary |
| Cwmfelin Primary |
|
The day of the finals saw many excited students, and even more excited supporters descend on a gloriously sunny Porthcawl., all eager to win the quiz title. In attendance was the deputy mayor Councillor Marlene Thomas, who was ready to be impressed by the students road safety knowledge.
After a close competition, the winners were announced.
3rd Maes yr Haul Primary.
2nd Oldcastle Primary.
1st place was awarded to Trelales primary! Congratulations to the pupils of class 5.
The poster competition run by BCBC was won by the talented children of Oldcastle Primary! So congratulations to them.
21/6/11
That is the message from the latest important safety campaign from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Road Safety Team, which is being fronted by West End star Sophie Evans. Sophie has been chosen because she is someone people of all ages admire and look up to and she has the ability to bring families together.
That is exactly what the Road Safety Team hope will happen as a result of the latest campaign, with families coming together to discuss road safety and following Sophie’s example by wearing a helmet.
Wearing a protective helmet is proven to reduce the risk of serious injury or worse if you are involved in a cycling accident, which is why it is so important people get used to wearing them as a matter of course from an early age.
Parents, grandparents, carers and even older brothers and sisters have an important role to play in not only stressing why a helmet must be worn, but also ensuring it becomes second nature. Often young children are reluctant to wear a helmet if they are the only one in their group of friends who has to do so.
That is why the Road Safety Unit remains committed to working with children from a very early age so putting on a helmet is second nature.
As well as saving lives and reducing the risk of injury, wearing a helmet is also a sign of being a safe and responsible cyclist, one of the important messages that the Road Safety Unit deliver when they work in schools, teaching pupils how to ride and operate bikes.
Be Road Safe – Use Your Head And Wear A Helmet is the final in a series of campaigns delivered by the Road Safety Unit and fronted by Sophie Evans.
Previous campaigns have raised the profile of using the Green Cross Code and always holding the hand of a youngster when they are crossing the road, always wearing a seat belt or car seat on every car journey and switching off your mobile and concentrating on what is happening around you – especially when you are a pedestrian.
Each campaign was designed to address direct concerns of the community to ensure people of all ages are safe pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
Cllr Andrew Morgan, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Road Safety, said: “Once again, we have worked hard to create an imaginative and appealing campaign with the main aim of getting families discussing important issues and helping them to keep younger generations safe.
“Sophie is the perfect choice for this as she appeals to, and inspires, so many and we are pleased she has once again given us her time to support this important piece of work.
“Wearing a helmet should not be a choice. It is absolutely essential we all wear them in order to prevent serious injury. I hope this campaign goes some way to raising the profile of that message.”
Sophie, currently starring as Dorothy in Lord Lloyd Webber’s West End adaptation of The Wizard of Oz, was chosen as the face of the campaigns due to her popularity with the local population.
She appeals to families and is an inspiration for other young people, enabling the Road Safety Team to create a friendly, appealing campaign to help drive home the important messages.
20/6/11
The rain clouds parted long enough for 243 children, teachers and adjudicators to participate in the annual ‘Giant Walking Bus’ record attempt at Maendy Primary School, Cwmbran, at 10am on Wednesday 15 June.
The event, which is masterminded nationally by road safety charity Brake, gives a visual reminder to passing drivers that they should slow down around schools. It also encourages participants to get out of their cars and enjoy walking to and from school and around the community. Judging by the smiles and happy voices as the children walked along busy Cwmbran Drive while passing drivers sounded their horns in support, today’s march was a great success.
Leading the crocodile of over 240 pupils clad in hi visibility tabards were the year 5 Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSOs) Josh Williams and Emma Tapp. The two JRSOs held up a large colourful banner with the slogan, “Slow down around schools”. Josh and Emma will be recruiting two new JRSOs to help them deliver road safety initiatives in the school from September; there should be plenty of volunteers following the success of today’s Giant Walking Bus!
Back at school, Mrs Wicks lead a whole school assembly in which the dangers of walking while texting on a mobile phone and the journey to senior school for the year 6 leavers, were among the topics discussed. The Year One children then sang a song specially written for the occasion.
Alison Wicks, the organiser of the walk said, “It has been hard work to set up but everything has worked out as planned. The Giant Walking Bus fulfils many curriculum requirements and also helps towards our Eco-School submission: best of all we’ve all had a lovely morning. Maendy School will definitely be participating in next year’s Giant Walking Bus!”
Penny Thorpe, Principal Road Safety Officer with Capita Symonds (Cwmbran), said, “I was one of the adjudicators and went on the walk with the pupils. I was very impressed by their interest and how well they behaved on the walk, especially the older children who took responsibility for younger pupils and talked about some of the visible road safety issues as they walked.”
10/6/11
More than 100 pupils from primary schools in the Aber Valley took part in a mass guided walk along a newly created safe route in the community. The Caerphilly County Borough Council Mayor, Cllr Vera Jenkins, joined the children as they walked to their local comprehensive - St Cenydd School in Caerphilly - before taking part in a series of road safety and sustainability themed activities.
This event was organised by CCBC and aimed to encourage more primary school children to choose to walk and cycle to secondary school next year. It was part of a week of wider activities called ‘Lush Hour’ coordinated by Sustrans Cymru.
The organised walk started at Nant-y-Parc School in Senghenydd and followed the new Safe Routes in Communities to St Cenydd School, with other feeder primary schools joining on along the way.
The new pedestrian and cycling route from Senghenydd to St Cenydd School was developed as part of the Safe Routes in Communities project which was funded by The Welsh Government and the Regional Transport Plan Grant.
On reaching St Cenydd School, the pupils were entertained by Voice FM while tucking into a healthy and sustainable picnic lunch, followed by activities including ‘smoothie bikes’ and parachute games.
Cllr Rob Gough, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, Engineering and Transport said, “Initiatives like this are an excellent way to help encourage pupils to lead a healthier lifestyle, by allowing them to enjoy a daily walk or cycle in the fresh air with their friends. This new route, which follows the old railway line, has been opened up for everyone to use and we want the whole community to make good use of it in the future.”
Local businesses helped to support the event by supplying goods or services and the organisers would like say a big thank you to Castell Coaches, Asda Caerphilly and Allied Bakery.
For more information contact Susan Davies on 01495 235402
Susan Davies
School Travel Plan Officer
Caerphilly County Borough Council
01495 235402
davies15@caerphilly.gov.uk
www.caerphilly.gov.uk
8/6/11
The Emergency Services came together at the Petrolheads Café in Bagillt at the weekend to engage with drivers and launch a specially commissioned new vehicle which will help educate young motorists about road safety.
Staff from North Wales Fire and Rescue Services, North Wales Police, The Welsh Ambulance NHS Trust and Dangerpoint - the Safety Education Charity, spoke to over 100 motorists on Saturday evening and showcased the new engagement vehicle which will be used to attract young drivers. Funded by North Wales Police and managed by DangerPoint safety education charity, the new vehicle is a multi agency resource which will be used at Emergency Services events across the region.
Known as ‘The van’, the vehicle is equipped with an audio visual package including a high definition multimedia PC, two HD LCD flat screens, subsonic amplifiers, audio amplifiers and subwoofers.
The sound system is used as an engagement tool with young drivers who are then shown a range of audio visual resources that will raise their awareness to the risks of driving and anti social driving behaviour. Key messages include seatbelts, drink and drug driving, peer pressure, distraction and mobile phones and speed.
Sharon Bouckley from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Safety Department explains: “Road crashes are the biggest killer of 15-24 year-olds - only one in eight car licence holders are aged under 25, yet one in three drivers who die on UK roads are under 25.
"We as a Fire and Rescue Service attend a high number of road traffic collisions involving young people - and we are doing all that we can to educate our youngsters and drive down the number of tragedies on our roads.
“This new vehicle will help us in our quest to drive down road deaths and create a new generation of responsible drivers.”
PC Meurig Jones from North Wales Police who attended the event said: “By attending these types of engagement events we can help break down barriers with young drivers.
“This was a great opportunity to talk to young drivers about issues such as the importance of wearing seatbelts, the dangers of driving at inappropriate speeds and careless driving.
He added: “Education is essential when trying to reduce the number of casualties on our roads and we will continue to work closely with our partner agencies to drive home the road safety message.”
Victoria Burrows from Dangerpoint added: “Finding new ways to increase young people’s safety andraising their awareness of the vulnerability of young drivers is a priority for DangerPoint.
“With the new vehicle we have a great opportunity to work across North Wales with the emergency services to engage with many young people.”
Welsh Ambulance Service North Wales Road Safety Champion Dermot O’Leary concluded: “All too often we are called out to incidents on the road involving youths and young adults, and you can see perhaps that a lapse in concentration may have triggered the unfortunate series of events.
“These tragic incidents can cause aftershocks for families, friends, communities and even our crews for months, maybe years. By supporting this new initiative I hope we can reduce these incidents and highlight the extra care needed to navigate the region’s roads.”
The photograph shows some of the youngsters with emergency service staff at the Petrolheads Café in Bagillt.
8/6/10
Think before you drink – that’s the message from Gwynedd children in a competition to design a poster for the summer 2011 drink drive campaign. Pupils from all Gwynedd primary schools were invited to take part in the competition to design a poster that would urge motorists not to drink and drive.
The winner of the competition was Sarah Marie Sivyer, a ten year old Ysgol Talysarn pupil. Sarah has received a flip camera and a framed copy of her poster as a prize. She received her award at the launch of the all Wales Summer Anti Drink / Drug Driving summer campaign 2011 which was held at Caernarfon on Wednesday, 1 June 2011.
Councillor Gareth Roberts, Gwynedd Council Senior Portfolio Leader for the Environment said:
“As a Council, we are pleased to be working together with the police on the Summer 2011 Anti Drink Driving Campaign. The aim of the campaign is to encourage motorists to act responsibly, we are keen that people enjoy themselves over the summer but if they do drink it is very important that they think about how they get home.
“It is great to see so many of Gwynedd’s young people have taken part in the poster competition. Many congratulations to Sarah and to all of the children that have taken part in the competition for their hard work in what is such an important campaign. I hope that motorists across Gwynedd heed the advice and think before they drink and drive.”
Sarah’s poster will be displayed across Gwynedd in order to promote the important message to encourage motorists not to drink and drive.
The All Wales Summer Anti Drink/Drug Driving Campaign will run until Thursday, 30 June.
The photograph shows Sarah receiving her award from Gareth Pritchard, Assistant Chief Constable of North Wales Police.
3/6/11
A new and unique road safety campaign aiming to empower teenage passengers to speak up when they are travelling with an irresponsible driver has been launched, Powys County Council has announced. Mission: Fatal 4law has been launched by the council's Road Safety Unit and the campaign centres around a page on the popular social network site Facebook. The page - www.facebook.com/missionfatal4law - will provide information, help and advice on how individuals can influence the behaviour of other car occupants and ultimately help to avoid a collision.
A viral video has also been filmed using local actors and members of Llandrindod Wells Youth Centre also feature as extras. Local band The Hostages have also written and produced a song called 'Stop, Slow Down' specifically for this campaign. Both the film and song will be hosted on this Facebook page.
Powys has had an increase in the number of young passengers killed or injured in recent years and the total number of car passengers injured in collisions in 2010 was almost three times higher than the number of motorcyclists injured on the county's roads in the same year. The Road Safety Unit created this brand new campaign as resources for this vulnerable road user group were not available.
Alyson Broome, the council's Road Safety Project Officer, said: "The increase in the number of young passengers injured on our roads is a worrying statistic. When you get into a car as a passenger, you are handing over responsibility for your life to someone else.
"We want to show our young people here in Powys that even if they don't drive, they still have a voice when it comes to their own safety.
"Signing up to the Facebook campaign will enable them to access a whole range of advice and suggestions on alternative ways of influencing other people's behaviour should they not have the confidence to speak up. We hope to reduce the number of collisions involving young passengers and, in turn, our young drivers through this campaign."
Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Road Safety, said: "I am very proud of this initiative and I very much hope it will result in a reduction in car passenger injuries and deaths.
"In creating this campaign, the Road Safety Unit has utilised the popularity of social networking and this innovative approach to education can only have a positive impact on our young road users."
For more information visit www.facebook.com/missionfatal4law and you don't have to be registered with Facebook to view the campaign. Alternatively contact the Road Safety Unit on 01597 826979.
Photo caption
Members of Llandrindod Wells Youth Centre Kallum Williams, Nathan Humble, Tinny Tinagone and Jack Cousins, who appeared as skaters in the video for Mission: Fatal 4law are joined by Alyson Broome; Cllr Geraint Hopkins; Sarah Morris, the council's Senior Road Safety Officer; and Meryl James MBE, the Welsh Government's Road Safety Manager, at the launch of the campaign.
1/6/11
Think before you drink – that is the message being driven by all four Welsh police forces ahead of this year’s all Wales Summer Anti Drink / Drug Driving Campaign.
The campaign, which was launched by North Wales Police on the Maes in Caernarfon today (Wednesday, 1st June), aims to crack down on drivers who risk lives by drinking and driving or driving under the influence of drugs.Throughout the month-long campaign officers across Wales will be focussing their efforts on drink and drug drivers, conducting increased stop checks to tackle those flouting the law.
North Wales Police’ Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard said: "At this time of year, the temptation to drink and drive is even greater as people are often tempted to have a few drinks socialising with friends, and then they don’t think about the dangers of getting behind the wheel.
“We want people to enjoy themselves over the summer months however, if you’re going to a beer garden after work or a friend’s barbecue at the weekend then think about how you are going to get home. Book a taxi, arrange a lift with a designated driver or simply just don’t drink.
“Officers from across Wales will be out there with a determination to arrest those people who choose to drink or take drugs and drive. The overwhelming majority of the public are supportive of the need to make our roads safer and share our resolve to rid the roads of drink and drug drivers.
He added: “Our campaign will continue throughout the remaining summer months as we seek to make our roads safer for all.”
The All Wales Summer Anti Drink/Drug Driving Campaign will run from Wednesday 1st until Thursday 30th June.
North Wales Police is encouraging anyone with information about people who are drinking or driving to report them by calling 101 (if in Wales), 0845 607 1001 (Welsh language line), 0845 607 1002 (English Language Line) or Crimestoppers Wales anonymously.
Note:
During the 2010 campaign, 25,714 people were stopped and breath tested by police in Wales. 513 tested positive or refused or failed a breath test. In north Wales, 6,876 drivers were tested with 103 positives.
Do you know the legal limit for alcohol when driving?
The legal limit in the UK is 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood. However, any amount of alcohol affects your ability to drive safely. The effects can include slower reactions, poorer judgement of speed and distance and a reduced field of vision. Alcohol also tends to make you feel over-confident and more likely to take risks when driving, which increases the danger to all road-users.
The Law
If you are convicted for a drink driving offences you will:
Have a criminal record
Lose your licence for a minimum of one year
You may go to prison for up to six months
You may have to pay a fine of up to £5,000
Have difficulty hiring a car within ten years of your conviction
If you are convicted of causing death by careless driving while under the influence of drink you face:
Up to 14 years in prison
An unlimited fine
A minimum two-year driving ban
Other consequences:
Face exceptionally high insurance costs once you get your licence back
You may lose your job
Legal expenses
Loss of personal transport and increased travel expenses
Living with your conscience
Worse of all, living with the knowledge that your irresponsibility has caused death, injury or severe distress to innocent people
27/5/11
Shoppers and visitors in Caernarfon joined police for a ‘mocktail’ today ahead of the all Wales Summer Anti Drink and Drug Driving Campaign which is being launched next week. The educational day, which was hosted by North Wales Police today was held as part of week-long activities that have been hosted on the Maes in Caernarfon by the Gwynedd Road Safety Partnership.
Police staff helped to serve samples of free non-alcoholic cocktails or mocktails to visitors from a special ‘bar’ on the Maes in the town. People were also given the opportunity to take home mocktail recipe leaflets promoting responsible drinking when driving.
Gareth Jones, Road Safety Manager for North Wales Police said: “Today has been a successful day whereby we’ve engaged with the public – young and old, to educate them about the consequences of drink and drug driving.
“This week was all about education – it is up to us all to send the message that drink and drug driving is socially unacceptable. By taking part in a week-long education activity with our partners, we hope that we can discourage people from taking the risk.”
Police officers from the Force’s Roads Policing Unit were also on-hand to speak to people regarding the dangers and consequences of driving whilst under the influence of drink and drugs and members of the public were given the opportunity to try out vision impairment goggles or ‘beer goggles’ as they are better known to demonstrate what it felt like and how dangerous it is to be drunk.
The North Wales Fire and Rescue Service Information Bus has also been parked on the Maes all week with representatives from the Welsh Ambulance Service and Gwynedd Council.
Gareth Jones added: “It is vitally important that we get the message across that driving under the influence of drink and drugs will not be tolerated on the roads of north Wales.
“We want people to have a memorable summer for all the right reasons.”
The All Wales Summer Anti Drink and Drug Driving Campaign is being launched at 11am on Wednesday, 1st June on the Maes in Caernarfon.
27/5/11
Pupils in Gowerton Primary School have been crowned Swansea's junior road safety champions after winning the annual road safety quiz.
The five-strong team of children beat off stiff competition from teams at Hendrefoilan Primary, Clwyd Primary, Pontarddulais Primary and Oystermouth Primary School. The teams were quizzed on a variety of road safety themed questions and Kevin Johns took on the role of quiz master for the evening.
Swansea Council organises the annual event to kick off the year and test the road safety knowledge of pupils in schools across the city. John Hague, Cabinet Member for the Environment in Swansea Council, said: "All the teams really enjoyed the event and helped make it a fun and interesting quiz. Even though only one team could win, all the schools showed they have a good understanding of road safety issues. We have just announced our plans in relation to road safety education in Swansea. It's vital that we continue to receive funding from the Welsh Assembly so we can carry on with the excellent work our Road Safety Team is doing."
26/5/11 
Transport Minister Carl Sargeant has welcomed latest figures published today that show Welsh roads are at their safest since records began 43 years ago. The figures – ‘Roads Casualties in Wales, 2010’ - show that the number of road accidents, injuries and deaths in Wales continue to fall when compared to previous years with the number of people either killed or injured at their lowest since 1968.
Police Recorded Road Casualties, 2010
Police Reported Road Traffic Fatalities, 2010
•95 people were killed on Welsh roads in 2010, 30 (24 per cent) fewer than in 2009.
•998 people were seriously injured in 2010, 98 (9 per cent) fewer than in 2009.
•During 2010 there were 6,856 road accidents involving personal injury recorded by the police in Wales, 270 (4 per cent) fewer than in 2009.
•These accidents resulted in 9,961 casualties, 393 (4 per cent) fewer than in 2009.
•8,868 people were slightly injured, a decrease of 265 (3 per cent) compared with the previous year
The Minister said;
"It is a tragedy that people still lose their lives on the road network.
"However, this Government is fully committed to making Wales' roads safer and these figures demonstrate that our promotion of safe driving through effective education, safety improvements on our roads and tougher enforcement is having a positive impact.
"The Welsh Government has allocated over £30million since 2007 to enable local authorities to implement a wide range of road safety projects that has contributed to this downward trend of road casualties.
"By working in partnership with the police, road safety experts and local authorities we need to continue to promote road safety messages - particularly among young drivers - and remind all road users of their responsibilities to themselves and others.
"Despite meeting and exceeding our very challenging casualty reduction targets there is still more that can be done in order to ensure that Wales continues to be one of the safest countries in the world in which to travel."
24/5/11
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Ian Williamson (left) from the Motorcycle Action Group presents the award to Sarah Morris, Alan Davies and Cllr Geraint Hopkins from Powys County Council. |
The Motorcycle Action Group - a national motorcycle charity with over 65,000 members - has awarded a Certificate of Merit to the Road Safety team at Powys County Council. The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has worked closely with Powys Council and other agencies to improve the safety of motorcyclist in the county through a series of innovative initiatives such as introducing location markers with grid references at known locations of collisions . This aims to help people who may not be sure of their location.
In addition, the Road Safety Team have introduced free Bikesafe courses for residents, literature aimed at educating bikers and also offer resources such as high visibility rucksack covers, visor wipes and highway codes.
Ian Williamson from the Motorcycle Action Group presented the award to Sarah Morris, Senior Road Safety Officer at Powys County Council and Vice-Chair of Road Safety Wales. Mr Williamson, said: "The joint opportunities of working with Powys have proved to be effective in communicating with a diverse road user group. This is the only way to engage with the motorcycling community, by discussing things with us rather than talking at us.
"Powys promoted safety in an activity that is of economic benefit to the county. Engagement days at Storey Arms and Crossgates have proved successful beyond our expectation for both parties."
The method of cooperative working has seen MAG provide equipment to Powys in order to promote motorcycle and road safety and Powys ask for MAG input into motorcycling issues within the county.
Sarah Morris, Senior Road Safety Officer with Powys County Council, said: "We are thrilled to receive this award. Powys has always attracted a high number of motorcyclists and we strive to implement road safety initiatives, which will allow motorcyclists to enjoy our county in a safe and responsible manner."
County Councillor Geraint Hopkins, Cabinet Member with portfolio for road safety said: “I am really pleased with the work being undertaken by the Road Safety and Traffic Sections. There has been a dramatic decrease in the number of motorcyclists being killed on our roads, since safety schemes have been introduced. The schemes are made possible through funding from the Welsh Assembly Government and we are grateful to receive this funding."
24/5/11
Hundreds of young children in Swansea will get special cycling safety lessons this year to help keep them safe on two wheels.
A special road safety grant has been awarded to Swansea Council which will give the Council's Road Safety Team the opportunity to visit primary schools from April until August.
Clive John, Swansea Council's Cycle Safety Officer will be busy visiting schools between now and the end of the Summer ensuring children know how to ride a bike and making sure they take their own safety seriously.
During the seven years Clive has carried out the role as Cycle Safety Officer he estimates to have trained around 10,000 schoolchildren.
Clive said: "Knowing how to ride a bike safely is a key skill all children should all possess.
"Most young children enjoy riding bikes and we want to ensure they can do this safely in their own communities."
One of the schools to receive the training is Dunvant Primary School.
Phil Sterio is a teacher at the school. He said, "This is a fantastic resource for our children.
"It helps with awareness of basic cycling rules and safety measures.
"Our area is extremely busy and this scheme makes the children think before they take any chances.
"As a result children take their good habits into adolescence and adulthood, and have a healthy respect for all road users."
Swansea Council has received a total of £595,000 in the annual road safety grant settlement from the Welsh Assembly. £230,000 will go towards educating children about road safety issues including cycle safety training.
23/5/11
A week-long educational event is being held in Caernarfon ahead of the launch of this summer’s Anti Drink and Drug Driving Campaign. Starting on Monday 23rd May, the Gwynedd Road Safety Partnership, which includes North Wales Police, the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the Welsh Ambulance Service and Gwynedd Council’s Road Safety Unit are hosting the week-long event on the Maes to help educate the public about the dangers and consequences of driving whilst under the influence of drink and drugs. The event has been coordinated to tie in with the launch of the All Wales Summer Anti Drink and Drug Driving Campaign which is being hosted by North Wales Police in Caernarfon on Wednesday 1st June.
For the whole week ahead of the official launch, the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service’ Community Safety Bus will be parked on the Maes and there will be an opportunity for members of the public to jump onboard to speak with staff representing the North Wales Road Safety Group.
Road Safety Manager for North Wales Police, Gareth Jones said: “During the week we will be engaging with the public, educating them about the consequences of drink and drug driving.
“One effective way in which we’ll reinforce the ‘don’t drink and drive’ message will be to demonstrate just what it feels like and how dangerous it is to be drunk. We will do this with a pair of Vision Impairment goggles, or ‘beer goggles’ as they are better known. These unique goggles simulate the effect of impairment, including reduced alertness, confusion, visual distortion and alteration of depth and distance perception.
He added: “By working in partnership we can help make everyone aware of how drink or drug driving can ruin lives.”
Paul Scott, Community Safety Team Manager for the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are pleased to be supporting the activities ahead of the Summer Anti Drink and Drug Driving campaign. Every year firefighters attend thousands of road traffic collisions and witness some of the horrific consequences of simple mistakes made every day by people behind the wheel. We want everyone to be aware of how drink and drug driving can destroy lives.”
During the week staff will also be on hand demonstrating how a breath testing kit works, how police carry out Field Impairment Testing (FIT) to see if someone is driving whilst under the influence of drugs, and towards the end of the week there will also be an opportunity to sample free non-alcoholic cocktails.
Leaflets containing the possible penalties people can face if convicted of drink and drug driving offences will also be distributed and School Community Police Officers will be talking about how various illegal substances can impair your driving skills.
Staff will be available on the Maes from 9:30am throughout the week beginning Monday, May 23rd.
Note:
The North Wales Road Safety Group includes Road Safety Officers from the six North Wales local authorities, representatives from the three emergency services and from the Wales Casualty Reduction Partnership who meet throughout the year to discuss road safety issues.
19/5/11
A new video, ‘Blue Light Aware’ has been launched by the GEM Motoring Assist Road Safety Charity. The five-minute video seeks to offer advice to members of the public on how best to help an emergency service driver on a ‘blue light’ run.
The video can be viewed at www.bluelightaware.org.uk. It is based on the advice available in the Highway Code and addresses specific situations identified as causing confusion for motorists.
The video production follows a three-month consultation period in which emergency service representatives and road safety professionals were invited to provide their expert comment on how each situation should be illustrated and explained. The finished video now has the support of the Association of Chief Police Officers, the Chief Fire Officers Association, the Driving Standards Agency, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, RoadSafe, the Motor Schools Association and the Institute of Advanced Motorists.
David Williams, Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist, who spearheaded the project, commented: “Our research showed that the vast majority of road users want to help an emergency service driver. The difficulties come because it is not always clear what they are expected to do in order to provide the best help. As a result, too many members of the public are putting themselves in danger, breaking the law or risking damage to their cars while trying to assist an emergency vehicle on a blue light run.
“The need for a new information video has been raised frequently in recent years. The Blue Light Aware resource, with the video at its core, has been developed to reduce confusion and doubt for motorists. We are pleased to be providing this information that we believe will act as a bridge of understanding between emergency service drivers and other motorists.
“Emergency service drivers make ‘blue light’ journeys because someone needs their urgent help. We in turn can help them by giving them the room they need. In so doing, we may well be helping to save a life.”
Funding for the project has been provided by GEM’s Road Safety Charity, Volvo and Drive Smarter.
To view the video, go to www.bluelightaware.org.uk
11/5/11
Meryl James, Road Safety Manager at the Welsh Assembly Government has been awarded an MBE by the Queen in recognition of her work helping to reduce road casualties in Wales. Meryl who has been in the Assembly’s Road Safety Department for over ten years, received the honour in recognition of her dedicated ongoing commitment to road safety and the promotion of sustainable modes of transport through the Safe Routes in Communities Scheme.
Steve Baker, Head of RoSPA Wales, said, “Meryl’s vision and commitment to casualty reduction has been pivotal in creating a new road safety culture in Wales over the past 10 years. Her energy, leadership and support, particularly towards local authorities, has been crucial in driving forward projects, campaigns and good road safety practices and her recognition is well merited. On behalf of all her colleagues in Wales and beyond, I most heartily congratulate her on a very well deserved accolade.”
On her experience at Windsor Castle, Meryl said ”I had a wonderful time. It was a real honour and I felt very special for the day. Now even the Queen knows about safe routes in Wales! I greatly appreciate all the support and well wishes I have received from my road safety colleagues.”
11/5/11
The three Welsh fire and rescue services will be taking part in a Road Safety Day on May 11 as part of the launch of the United Nations Decade of Action on Road Safety.
Fire officers from all three services will be working with police and local authority road safety officers around Wales to offer safety advice to drivers. At one location, drivers caught not wearing a seatbelt will be offered the chance of a safety presentation rather than the normal fine and penalty points.
The UN is launching a 'Decade of Action for Road Safety' this year, with the aim of stabilising and then reducing global road deaths by 2020. Around 1.3 million people die every year in road traffic incidents around the world.
Kenny McDonald, Road Traffic Collision Reduction Officer for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Fire officers, police, and other partners will be at various locations around Wales promoting the UN decade of action, and giving advice on road safety.
"We have made large gains in reducing road traffic incidents in the developed world, and through the Decade of Action on Road Safety we are encouraging support for developing countries that will help to drive down their road deaths and injuries. Members of the public can sign a petition on the UN Decade of Action website".
Neil Brown, Head of Road Safety South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The Fire & Rescue Service now have a statutory responsibility to intervene where Road Traffic Collisions take place. In addition, they have a responsibility to actively engage with other Road Safety Organisations and the public in an effort to reduce the number of persons killed or seriously injured on our Roads.
"By setting up and taking part in days of action like that planned for May 11th, we will actively engage with members of the public and raise their awareness of the importance of driving safely, courteously towards others and correctly on our highways. It is vital that people become further educated regarding Road Safety Issues. This includes drivers of vehicles, passengers and pedestrians.
"If we continue to highlight road safety as a priority over the next decade, we have the potential to save hundreds of lives across Wales whilst also preventing many injuries and disabilities."
Paul Scott, Community Safety Team Manager for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, added: "We will be attending the Caerwys Service Station on the A55 with our Subaru Impreza to educate the public about the initiative.
"In addition, our road safety partners from North Wales Police and the Welsh Ambulance Service will be with us to provide information and education to drivers of the consequences of inappropriate speeding, and the importance of wearing a seatbelt."
Events are planned for 11 May on every continent as the Decade of Action is launched, including a presentation by Formula One racing driver Michael Schumacher urging action at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
11/5/11
The new Strategic Framework for Road Safety is a catalyst for more lives to be saved and injuries reduced on Great Britain’s roads, says the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
The Department for Transport (DfT) launched its new framework for action on road safety today.
Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety, said: “RoSPA believes that the Department for Transport has taken the right decision by publishing the Strategic Framework for Road Safety. This demonstrates the government’s determination to reduce road deaths and injury, and helps the main agencies involved in road safety to work together more effectively so that the significant reductions in road casualties that have been achieved over the last two decades will continue, and be improved even further, throughout this one. Strong government leadership on road safety is crucial.”
Among the features included in the new framework are plans for the issuing of fixed penalty notices to careless drivers and for disqualified drivers to undergo retraining and retesting before their licences are reinstated. The framework includes “indicators” against which progress will be measured, rather than targets for casualty reduction.
Kevin Clinton said: “On the whole, RoSPA agrees with the introduction of a fixed penalty option for careless driving, which could increase the level of enforcement for this offence, and thereby discourage such driving. However, we recognise that there could be an element of subjectivity in deciding what constitutes more minor careless driving for which a fixed penalty would be appropriate and more serious offences, for which there should be a prosecution. The police and public need to understand the types of behaviour that constitutes a fixed penalty offence and those which should go to court.
“RoSPA strongly supports the retraining and retesting of disqualified drivers before their licences are reinstated because it is important that they are given help to improve their driving.”
RoSPA is delighted that its role in providing education, training and support for road safety professionals and business is highlighted and that its Young Drivers at Work Project is cited as an example of good practice. The Road Safety Evaluation website, which was developed by RoSPA and the DfT to help road safety practitioners evaluate their education, training and publicity activities, is also mentioned.
In 2009, 2,222 people were killed in accidents on Britain’s roads, down from 5,373 in 1999. Also in 2009, 24,690 people were seriously injured and 195,234 were slightly injured in road accidents that were reported to the police.
The Strategic Framework for Road Safety is available to view at
www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/roadsafety/strategicframework/pdf/strategicframework.pdf
RoSPA responded to an announcement about new drink and drug driving measures earlier in the year.
Today also marks the launch of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, which RoSPA warmly welcomes and strongly supports. See www.decadeofaction.org for more information.
11/5/11
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents warmly welcomes and strongly supports the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, launched today. The charity, which has been at the heart of accident prevention in the UK and around the world for 94 years, has made a firm commitment to the Decade, stating that: “Over the next 10 years RoSPA will help educate road users, train motorcyclists and drivers, help organisations manage their road risk and work with partners to improve road safety in the UK and around the world.”
Every six seconds, someone is killed or seriously injured on the world’s roads. This equates to 1.3million deaths every year (3,000 each day) and 20-50million serious injuries. These figures, from the UN, highlight the horrendous global cost of preventable road accidents.
Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety, said: “The Decade of Action highlights the need for national targets and strong government leadership on road safety. Here in the UK we have seen death and injury on our roads reduce significantly because we’ve had national strategies and targets led by successive governments, and supported by many different agencies such as local authorities, police, road user groups and charities like RoSPA all working towards the same goals.
“These strategies are most effective when based on good data so they address the most pressing issues, such as seat belt use, drinking and driving, speeding, motorcycle safety and vulnerable road users, such as children, pedestrians and pedal cyclists.
“Road deaths are set to become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2030. If measures are taken by governments, police, health practitioners and all road users to improve safety, this can be prevented.”
RoSPA believes the UN Decade is an ideal opportunity for the UK to continue the successes of the last 20-30 years, focusing on:
Better standards of driving, particularly improving the safety of young and novice drivers and people who drive for work and continuing to tackle drivers who speed, drink and drive, use mobile phones and otherwise drive carelessly or aggressively
Safer motorcycling, particularly encouraging more riders to take advanced training and finding ways to make drivers more aware of motorcyclists
Ensuring that the much-needed growth in cycling and walking is not accompanied by increases in cyclist and pedestrian casualties
Making best use of advances in vehicle and road infrastructure technology
Continually evaluating road safety measures to find out what works best and in what circumstances, and sharing those lessons and learning from others.
See www.decadeofaction.org for more information about the Decade of Action.
5/5/11
Gwent Police officers from the Severnside Neighbourhood Team carried out an operation yesterday to improve road safety in Monmouthshire. Officers stopped vehicles whilst on patrol around the Caldicot area with the aim of reducing traffic collisions and potential casualties.
Throughout the day they had the following results;
7 fixed penalties fines given to drivers for using mobile phone. The drivers will receive three points on their licence and a £60 fine.
4 fixed penalties for not wearing seatbelt. Drivers will receive a £60 fine.
1 fixed penalty for not using correct number plates. The driver will receive a £60 fine.
1 person summoned to appear in court for driving without a licence.
Sergeant Roland Giles said, “We are pleased with the results of this operation which has helped to keep dangerous driving off our roads in Monmouthshire. We will be running similar operations in the future and we’d like to urge the public to drive carefully and legally.”
5/5/11
Swansea Council's Highways Service is hoping to save £100k a year by reusing old road surface materials. The Council and its partners in the Swansea Highway Partnership have invested in a special asphalt-busting machine which will recycle chunks of road and produce top quality asphalt which will be used in future highway resurfacing.
A purpose built recycling plant is in the process of being developed at Ferryboat Close and will house the specialist machine which has been shipped down from Leicester.
Carl Humphrey, Head of Streetscene in Swansea Council, said: "The creation of this new recycling facility will mean we can utilise material we have taken from the highway and re-use it in our highway maintenance work. Usually we would need to buy in these materials to repair or resurface roads but having this machinery means we can produce our own without the need to purchase extra materials.
Hopefully this will provide us with a cost saving of at least £100,000 a year."
The Council has recently produced its Highway Asset Management Programme which plans how and when roads in Swansea are improved during the next few years.
Mr Humphrey said: "The new recycling plant will help us deliver our longer-term highway improvement plans as well as providing us with a source of material for repairing potholes and other road defects."
Roads across the country have suffered during the cold snap. Swansea Council has confirmed that, since the cold weather, over 1,500 potholes have been repaired.
11/4/11
Pupils from Llansannor Church in Wales Primary School have taken the title of Vale of Glamorgan Road Safety Quiz Winners 2011 for a record-breaking fourth time. The team followed up successes in 1999, 2008 and 2009 with a convincing win over Llanfair Primary School in the keenly-contested annual competition.
Hosted by the Vale Council’s road safety team, the event aims to make pupils more safety-conscious and aware of their responsibilities as pedestrians, cyclists and vehicle passengers, in an attempt to reduce child casualties. Watched over by fellow pupils, supporters and teachers, it was a case of fastest fingers first as each team faced ten rounds of individual, team and ‘fingers on buzzers’ questions – all based on their knowledge of the Young Person’s Highway Code.
An esteemed panel of judges, including the Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation Cllr Jeff James, Head of Planning and Transportation Rob Thomas and Principal Transport and Road Safety Officer Clare Cameron, presided over the event.
There was tension in the air as the team of four Year 6 pupils from Llanfair raced into an early lead, hoping to wipe out the memories of their narrow defeat in 2009, but they were soon caught up and overtaken by the combined knowledge of Llansannor’s finest – set on reaching the record-breaking number of wins. John Rogers, road safety officer and quizmaster for the day, said: “A big thank you must go to all the schools who took part in this worthwhile exercise. Win or lose, we hope that all the children enjoyed the experience and managed to take away valuable knowledge about road safety that will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.”
Qualifying rounds for this ever-popular annual schools’ event were undertaken in a record-breaking 41 Vale primary schools this year, with high standards achieved by all. Both finalist teams received gift vouchers plus a commemorative plaque each. The winners, Llansannor, also received £200 for their school and a magnificent glass trophy. Runners-up Llanfair received £100.
For more information on road safety in the Vale of Glamorgan contact the road safety team by calling 01446 700111 or visit the road safety pages.
6/4/11
One hundred and twenty ‘Ride Safely’ posters which will be distributed across the county will for the first time have a grid reference sticker placed on the back of them, Powys County Council has announced.
The new addition to the posters, which is also the first of its kind in Wales, is part of the council’s Road Safety Unit 2011 motorcyclist campaign.
Produced in partnership with the Motorcycle Action Group it is hoped that if a motorcyclist is involved in a collision or breaks down, they can use the sticker to provide their exact location on unfamiliar roads.
The sticker comprises of a 12-figure grid reference which can be given to emergency services control rooms, together with the description of the road number/route.
A leaflet will also form part of the campaign, which will provide a map of Powys with the locations of all the fatal and serious collisions in 2010 together with causation factors. The leaflets will be placed in establishments which are frequented by motorcyclists.
The unit will also be providing Powys residents with the opportunity to attend a training scheme at a considerably reduced rate, thanks to funding from the Welsh Assembly Government.
Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Board Member for Road Safety, said: "In 2010, Powys had the lowest number of fatal collisions since records began but we cannot become complacent.
"Three motorcyclists were killed in 2010, compared to four in 2009 and again in 2008 and seven in 2007. We need to continue to decrease the number of people killed on our roads. We hope that our road safety education, training and publicity will encourage motorcyclists to continue using our roads but in a safe and informed manner."
Sarah Morris, the council’s Senior Road Safety Officer, said: "Even though the number of fatal collisions has decreased overall, motorcyclists remain one of the most vulnerable road users.
"We hope that the grid reference pilot scheme will be successful by assisting the emergency services to arrive at the exact location of the collision within the golden hour. This could make the difference between a serious and fatal collision."
For further information on the motorcyclist campaign then contact the Road Safety Unit on 0845 602 7035 or 01597 827 465 or email road.safety@powys.gov.uk
1/4/11
Over 2000 motorists from across Wales were prosecuted for not wearing a seatbelt during a multi-agency crackdown. Throughout February, South Wales Police teamed up with the other Welsh Police Forces, the Fire and Ambulance service, local authorities and partner agencies across Wales to launch the All Wales Seatbelt Campaign, warning motorists and passengers that they are risking their lives by not wearing belts and issuing fixed penalty notices to those who choose to flout the law.
During the month-long campaign, which kicked off with a two week education and awareness phase, police officers detected a total of 2224 seatbelt offences.
In South Wales, 514 people were prosecuted, while in Gwent, there were 812 offences.
In the Dyfed Powys force area, there were 699 offences, while in North Wales a total of 209 offenders were caught and apprehended. 46 of the offences across Wales were in relation to children not wearing a seatbelt.
Chief Superintendent Cliff Filer, Head of Specialist Operations in South Wales Police said:
“It is extremely disappointing that over 2000 motorists were caught not wearing a seatbelt across Wales during the two week enforcement period of the campaign. Every year over 1,000 lives are saved in the UK as a direct result of wearing a seatbelt. They only take a second to click in to place, but can produce a lifetime of repercussions if ignored.
“The consequences of not belting up can be fatal, and we are determined to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads.The Welsh Emergency Services will continue to be robust in our efforts to ensure all drivers and passengers are being safe and buckling up.”
Motorists and passengers who choose to risk their lives by not wearing a seatbelt could receive a £60 Fixed Penalty Notice or be summonsed to court where they could face fines of up to £500.
As an alternative to prosecution, motorists and passengers are also given the opportunity to attend a showing of a film on the dangers of not wearing seatbelts.
During the enforcement phase of the February campaign, police officers carried out targeted patrols to stop and fine drivers and passengers of all ages not wearing seatbelts.
Every year the police service and partners in Wales run a number of road safety campaigns based around the ‘Fatal 5’ – the five main contributory factors in fatal road traffic collisions. These are:
- drink (alcohol) and drug driving
- driving without a seatbelt
- driving while using a mobile phone
- speeding
- careless and reckless driving
The seatbelt campaign was the first to kick off in 2011, with campaigns raising awareness of the dangers of drink driving, drug driving, mobile phone driving and speeding scheduled later in this year’s calendar.
Susan Storch, Chair of Road Safety Wales added:
“We want to encourage people to recognise the dangers of not wearing a seatbelt and these results show there are still people across Wales who are taking that risk.
“Wearing a seatbelt can mean the difference between life and death so drivers and passengers need to realise the importance of belting up not only for their own safety but for others also.”
25/3/11
With the UK set to put its clocks forward this weekend, RoSPA is urging people to back its daylight saving campaign online - so that evenings stay lighter for longer all year round.
For decades, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has been at the forefront of a crusade to give the UK an extra hour of evening daylight - citing research that shows brighter nights would save 80 lives and prevent more than 200 serious injuries on our roads each year.
In addition to the avoidance of grief and suffering, another positive consequence of fewer road accidents would be an annual saving to taxpayers of about £138million.
The initiative has generated powerful momentum in recent months, winning the backing of tens of thousands of people and organisations through 10:10’s Lighter Later coalition - of which RoSPA is a member.
The campaign is closer to succeeding now than at any time since 1970, thanks to Rebecca Harris MP’s Private Members’ Bill - which passed its second reading in Parliament in December with a huge majority.
To help the Bill clear the next hurdle - and to coincide with the start of British Summer Time on Sunday - RoSPA is calling on the public to help convince Westminster of its popularity.
They can do this by clicking the “Support Our Campaign” button at www.rospa.com/about/currentcampaigns/lighter-evenings/. Visitors to the webpage are also encouraged to lend their support to the Lighter Later movement by clicking on the logo that’s prominently displayed near the top.
If successful, the Bill will lead to the Government carrying out a cross-departmental analysis of the benefits of Single/Double Summer Time (GMT+1 in winter / GMT+2 in summer) - which in turn could trigger a three-year trial.
Tom Mullarkey, RoSPA’s chief executive, said: “It’s time for those who’ve seen the light to stand up and be counted for this life-saving proposal.
“All Rebecca Harris’s Bill is calling for is a review of the evidence - so people can see for themselves how positive an impact such a small adjustment will have on their lives.
“It is a change that will benefit all of the UK - but especially Scotland. If the evidence proves to be as irresistible as it is irrefutable, why should we continue to allow scores of people to die and scores more to be seriously hurt on our roads each year? We estimate that about 5,000 deaths and 30,000 serious injuries have been caused needlessly in the UK since the experiment was concluded in 1971.”
Some of the other benefits of SDST include a cut in annual CO2 emissions by nearly 500,000 tonnes, and a boost to the UK tourism industry of up to £3.5billion per year.
Tom Mullarkey added: “Now that the Government has decided not to reduce the drink/drive limit at this time, this campaign stands to save more lives than any other single road safety measure. The Department for Transport estimated in 2009 that it would only cost £5million to implement Single/Double Summer Time and would save more than £40million every year thereafter.
“We believe Rebecca Harris’s Bill will show the true value of making this change not just to the DfT but to all Government departments.”
22/3/11
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has welcomed a raft of new measures to tackle drink and drug driving but would like to see further steps to save even more of the lives lost due to drink drivers.
Streamlined procedures and the removal of loopholes to make it easier to conduct breath tests at the roadside and in police stations, improved testing equipment and more robust drink-drive rehabilitation schemes are among the measures announced today by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond, and welcomed by RoSPA.
But, in addition to these, the safety charity would like to see a reduced legal alcohol limit to further deter people from drink driving. For many years, RoSPA has called for the legal limit to be reduced from the current 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. This move was also recommended by last year’s North Report on Drink and Drug Driving, which followed an independent review of the law.
On drug driving, in addition to the approval of preliminary drug-testing equipment and the introduction of streamlined procedures, the Government will also examine the case for a new specific drug-driving offence - alongside the existing one - which would remove the need for the police to prove impairment on a case-by-case basis where a specified drug has been detected.
All the measures have been set out in the Government’s response to the North Report.
Duncan Vernon, road safety manager at RoSPA, said: “RoSPA welcomes the announcement of new measures to crack down on drink and drug driving. We have long called for it to be easier for the police to catch those driving above the legal alcohol limit or under the influence of drugs, and the new testing equipment and improved procedures will go a long way towards this. As well as enabling offenders to be caught, we hope these measures will also deter people from the anti-social and dangerous practices of drink and drug driving.
“We would still like to see a lower drink-drive limit, as recommended by the North Report. Long-standing research has estimated that lowering the limit to 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood would save 65 lives a year on Great Britain’s roads and more recent research has suggested that the casualty savings could be even greater - perhaps as many as 168 fewer deaths in the first year following the change. Lowering the limit would back up road safety messages about how and why driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous and would help to encourage drivers not to drink any alcohol before driving.”
In 2009, 380 people were killed and a further 11,610 were injured in drink-drive accidents on Great Britain’s roads. There were 53 fatalities and 1,007 other casualties in reported road accidents in which an impairment due to illicit or medicinal drugs was recorded among the contributory factors, although the true casualty figures for this are likely to have been higher.
16/3/11
Young drivers looking to buy their first car can now get helpful advice thanks to a free booklet, Powys County Council has announced.
The council’s Road Safety Unit and Trading Standards Service have joined forces to offer a booklet called ‘On the road: A guide to buying your first car’. The booklet has been produce by the Trading Standards Institute.
The booklet will be distributed by the Road Safety Unit to secondary school pupils in years 11 and 12 as part of their road safety lessons. The 32-page booklet provides information on numerous aspects of buying your first car including legal rights, dealing with problems, common problems and maintaining your car.
Cllr Geraint Hopkins, Board Member responsible for Road Safety, said: “Ensuring that our roads are safe for everyone is an important aim for our Road Safety Unit. By providing this booklet to young drivers as part of their road safety lessons, they can avoid any pitfalls when they want to buy their first car and ensure that it is safe and road worthy.”
Cllr Graham Brown, Board Member responsible for Public Protection, said: "Buying a car is a big step, and it's important to think about what you want before you start looking. Making these important decisions will help you to avoid problems later on. Even if you don't know anything about how a car works, there are things that you can look out for before you buy your car to check that it is safe, legal and in a reasonable condition.
In addition to being distributed in schools, limited copies of the booklet are available from the Road Safety Unit or Trading Standards Service. To request your free copy, ring 0845 6027030 or 01597 827460 and ask for Trading Standards or the Road Safety Unit or email trading.standards@powys.gov.uk to request a copy.
If you require consumer advice about the purchase of a car please contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or visit their website www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
16/3/11
Motorists in Swansea are putting young children's lives at risk by failing to stop for school crossing patrols.
Swansea Council has just launched a month-long campaign called 'Stop Means Stop' in a bid get motorists to stop when patrols attempt to walk children across the road.
The Council employs dozens of school crossing patrols, more commonly known as lollipop men and women, to help young children cross busy roads during the walk to and from school.
Patrols have reported a number of near misses across the city. Gwyn Lewis helps school children walk to and from Cwmrhydyceirw Primary School in Morriston.
Mr Lewis said: "Some cars come down the road much too fast and have problems stopping in time.
"We can get a lot of abuse from drivers who don't want to stop or slow down. They only need to stop for a few seconds and at the end of the day they are stopping for the children's benefit.
"I've been in the middle of the road before now and drivers have not stopped and just driven straight past me. It can be quite scary."
The campaign is being launched just three months after a 79 year old lollipop lady was struck and killed by a bus in Ayrshire.
John Hague, Cabinet Member for the Environment in Swansea Council, said: "These men and women do a wonderful job helping children to cross roads during school time.
"I think it's appalling that some motorists think it's ok to either verbally abuse patrols or for cars not to stop when they step into the road.
"School crossing patrols have the same legal powers as police to stop traffic. And to ignore them and not stop is a criminal offence. More importantly, these selfish drivers are putting young children at risk every day.
"I would urge motorists to please be careful and stop when you see a school crossing patrol."
15/3/11
With the appointment of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in Cardiff and the changes to the Traffic Warden Service, the very successful award winning Junior Traffic Warden Scheme, which was introduced in 2001, has been rebranded as the Junior Police Community Support Officer Scheme.
The scheme, which is a partnership between the Road Safety Team and South Wales Police, is a unique initiative, and aims to deter motorists parking illegally or in a dangerous manner near to schools. This is one of a number of measures used to combat this problem.The Junior PCSO scheme was first introduced at Coryton Primary School in 2008 and is currently operating at twelve primary schools in Cardiff. A number of children from each participating school act and dress as Junior PCSOs and patrol the roads in close proximity to the school in the company of a PC or PCSO.
For further information, please contact Maurice Lawrence, Safer Routes to School Officer. Tel: 2078 8524.
9/3/11
Port-Talbot raised actor Michael Sheen OBE and TREAT Trust Wales founder Melanie Davies are backing a new leaflet urging bikers in Wales to slow down and stay safe on the roads. The Ride Wales leaflet is part of the Wales By Bike campaign, which was set up to tackle the high number of motorbike fatalities on Welsh roads and is funded by Go Safe – the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership. The leaflet has been designed to provide bikers with top tips on how to be safe, common causes of accidents and how to avoid them, and training advice.
Michael has given his backing to the Wales By Bike campaign after learning that there were 25 motorbike fatalities across Wales last year. Michael is president of Melanie’s TREAT charity. “While the number of bike fatalities has dropped since its peak in 2007, sadly one death on the road is one death too many,” he said.
“Through my work with TREAT, I have come across many people whose lives have changed forever as a result of an accident. That’s why initiatives such as Wales By Bike are so important as they drive home the safe riding message to bikers so they don’t end up another statistic on our roads.”
Melanie, who grew up in Port Talbot, was paralysed in a horrific motorcycle accident in 1980 when she was just 15-years-old. As a result of her experiences of rehabilitation services, she set up the TREAT (Treatment, Rehabilitation, Exercise and Therapy) Trust to build a state-of-the-art rehabilitation centre at Morriston Hospital in Swansea to benefit patients in South West Wales.
“My life changed as I knew it, as my parents and as my friends and family knew it, in a second. I walked out of our home a carefree 15-year-old in May 1980 for what was to be the last time in my life. In the accident, my back was snapped between the shoulder blades paralysing me from the chest down,” she said.
“I was told I would never stand or walk again and that the rest of my life was to be lived in a wheelchair. I never thought it would happen to me - who does? I have many biker friends and TREAT Trust Wales supports this campaign to keep all biking enthusiasts safe and healthy.”
The Wales By Bike campaign centres around the website – www.walesbybike.com. Written by professional bikers for bikers, it features seasonal riding advice, hints, blogs, downloads, competitions, tips for car drivers and a safety camera database.
Jim Moore, manager of Go Safe, said: “We are doing everything we can to reduce the number of bike fatalities on our roads and the misery brought to families and friends. Not only do motorcyclists have to be more aware, adhere to speed limits and wear the right kit but motorists in general can help too by remembering that there are many more motorcycles on the road today and, because of their size, are difficult to spot, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.”
PC Kevin Garner, a motorcyclist with South Wales Police who helped develop the Wales By Bike campaign, added: “We want to provide bikers with as much information as possible on riding safely but without preaching or overcomplicating the issues. In my job, I’ve had to attend many motorbike accident scenes and break the news to families that a loved one has been injured or, much worse, killed. Wales has some great roads for biking and we want people to enjoy them – but safely. Motorbikes are becoming faster, more powerful and more sophisticated while, at the same time, our roads are getting busier. This means that bikers need to be much more clued up and keep their riding skills sharp through ongoing training such as the BikeSafe courses.”
The Ride Wales leaflet will be distributed to popular motorbike haunts and dealers across Wales and will also be available to download at www.walesbybike.com from the end of March. For more information on BikeSafe, visit www.bikesafe.co.uk
8/3/11
Hollywood star Michael Sheen is supporting a campaign encouraging safe motorcycling on Welsh roads. The actor, will join police officers and patrons of safety charities to launch the Wales By Bike initiative.
Sheen, who grew up in Port Talbot and is also a motorbike enthusiast, will speak at the event in Swansea Valley. The campaign is also backed by Melanie Davies, who was paralysed after in a biking accident when she was 15, but is still passionate about motorcycles.
She said she was keen to ensure that others didn't suffer the same fate.
"It was on 10 May 1980 - I was 15 years old and going out with a 19-year-old who I thought was God and had a massive bike," she said.
"We'd been to Porthcawl for a day out and were driving back along Aberavon seafront and we ended up going a round a 90 degree bend with sand in the road. He lost control of the bike and I was flung thru the air and landed on a wall and consequently broke my back. One minute I was walking - I'm 6ft tall and had a promising career as a possible model - and it just all went."
The number of bikers killed on Welsh roads has reduced from its peak in 1980, but safety campaigners say there is still work to be done to bring down the number of motorcycle fatalities.
The Wales by Bike leaflet, now in its fifth year, has been designed to provide bikers across Wales with tips on how to be safe, common causes of accidents and training advice.
Here Melanie Davies talks about the motorbike accident which left her paralysed at the age of 15.
The founder of Treat Trust Wales, a treatment and rehabilitation charity, is being joined by actor Michael Sheen to launch a new motorcycle safety campaign - Wales by Bike.
Listen to the interview with Jordan Davies of BBC Radio Wales here
View the BBC coverage here
Visit www.treattrust.org.uk
