Welcome to Road Safety Wales
14/8/08
The Abertillery Neighbourhood Policing Team is checking the speeds of motorists travelling through the area, in response to residents concerns about the speed of vehicles on local roads.
Checks are being carried out with a portable speeding device, which highlights to motorists the speeds that they are travelling.
The results from the checks will be sent to the Safety Camera Partnership, who will then analyse the data before deciding if enforcement is required, subject to their criteria.
The team are concentrating on roads that have been identified as PACT (Partnerships and Communities Together) priority areas.
Neighbourhood Sergeant Steve Parsons, said:
"Speeding is a PACT priority in each of the four Abertillery wards, so it's clearly an issue that concerns residents in these areas. As a result, we are using the portable speeding devices to gather data about the speeds that vehicles are travelling through the PACT priority areas. This information will then be given to the Safety Camera Partnership to decide if enforcement is required.
We are also using the devices as an education tool, to highlight to motorists the speeds that they are travelling. Speed limits are in place for a reason, and it's essential that drivers stick to them to ensure the safety of motorists, passengers and pedestrians."
13/8/08
Conwy's Road Safety Unit is urging everyone with young children to check their child car seats and to keep safe on the roads this summer.
The Road Safety Team are out and about at local supermarkets and agricultural shows encouraging people to use their seatbelts and checking the safety of child car seats with the help of colleagues from Halfords.
Julie Birchall, Conwy Road Safety Unit said, "We have been finding a large number of child car seats are not fitted correctly, which is quite worrying. I'd urge everyone to get their child car seats checked just for peace of mind."
The next car seat check will take place at Tesco Car Park, Llandudno Junction on 19th and 20th August.
Further information on child car seat safety can be found by logging onto www.childcarseats.org.uk.
12/8/08
Recently, South Wales Police showed local youngsters the dangers of driving in wet and icy weather conditions. The young teenagers, from the Bridgend Youth Service, had the rare but exciting opportunity to go in a police car and be driven around the Skid Pan by one of South Wales Police’s experienced roads policing officers.
Situated at Police Headquarters, the Skid Pan is used to train traffic police officers to drive safely on wet and icy roads, which is often the cause of many fatal road traffic collisions on public roads.
Sgt Keith Carpenter, Roads Policing Officer, said,
“Last year, South Wales Police dealt with 47 fatal road traffic collisions. An alarming number of these involved young drivers. Contributory factors involved in these tragedies were the presence of drink or drugs, failing to wear a seat belt and using a mobile phone.
“Later this year, South Wales Police will be launching a seat belt campaign, which will specifically target the younger driver to remind them that seat belts save lives.
“We hope the young people from the Bridgend Youth Service will remember the lessons they learnt at the Skid Pan and become a safe and responsible driver when they pass their driving test.”
Owen Roberts of Bridgend Youth Service said,
“It was a fantastic opportunity for the young people involved to learn some valuable lessons with regards to the different situations you could face when driving. Even though there were serious lessons to be learnt, the young people had a great time with Sgt Carpenter and the demonstrations they experienced.”
“The young people involved were all part of the Big Lottery Funded, Changing Tracks Project which aims to work with young people aged 13-19 and address their barriers to education, training or employment and provide one-to-one support, information and advice.”
7/8/08
The latest National Statistics on ‘Road Casualties in Wales: Quarterly Provisional Estimates March Quarter 2008,’ produced by the Welsh Assembly Government, were published on 7 August 2008, according to the arrangements approved by the UK Statistics Authority.
This is the first time the Welsh Assembly Government has published quarterly road casualties data.
Statistical Release 117/2008 PDF format 236kb 
The key points from this release are:
- 22 road casualties were reported as killed
- 295 were reported as seriously injured, and
- 2,286 as slightly injured
- The number of total KSI casualties over this period, at 1,412 people, was 2 per cent higher than the previous 12 month period and 30 per cent lower than the average for 1994-98.
- The number of child KSI casualties over this period, at 142 children, was 4 per cent lower than the previous 12 month period and 51 per cent lower than the average for 1994-98.
Contact:
Tel: 029 2082 5085
E-mail: stats.transport@wales.gsi.gov.uk
6/8/08
A student from St Cyres Comprehensive School in Penarth has been hailed as a true example to other teenagers after winning a competition set by Penarth Firefighters about the consequences of road traffic collisions.
Emily Gronow, aged 17, excelled in the road safety competition with her hard hitting film based on a poem written about a real life experience of losing a loved one in a road crash. Firefighters from Red Watch at Penarth Fire Station initiated the competition earlier in the year, setting youngsters the challenge of producing a piece of work that reflected the harsh reality of a road traffic collision and delivered a message which would help to reduce future collisions.
The video follows the story of a very sad personal loss during a car crash and Emily used her mum and friends as the main stars of the film. Now, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service will be making the video available to all its fire stations to drive home the message of road safety through the eyes of a teenager.
Station Manager at Penarth, John Davies said, “When we saw this video, we instantly knew it would deliver the message to other teenagers and prove useful across the Service. Other Fire Stations can use this to connect with teenagers about road safety. Emily put a huge amount of effort into this project and we appreciate her efforts.”
Firefighters attend thousands of road traffic collisions every year in South Wales, are often first on the scene and are wholly aware of the devastating consequences they can incur. The video produced by Emily will become part of the ongoing campaign to reduce road traffic collisions by making young people aware of the dangers and the simple safety measures they should take.
www.southwales-fire.gov.uk
6/8/08
Almost three quarters of car seats in Carmarthenshire are incorrectly fitted, according to safety checks.
Child car seats in vehicles across the county were inspected as part of an annual safety campaign.
Road safety and trading standards officers checked dozens of seats and found that 73 per cent were not properly installed.
The main problems were with seats being loosely fitted or incorrectly installed, and one seat was condemned.
A huge 43 per cent needed major adjustments and some 19 per cent were unsuitable for the cars.
Carmarthenshire County Council was behind the initiative, aimed at illustrating the risks to babies and small children if seats are not fitted properly.Roadshows were held at supermarkets in Carmarthen, Llanelli and Ammanford and parents were given expert advice and were warned about the dangers of using second hand car seats.
Road Safety Manager Keith Griffiths said: “It’s not just enough to own a car seat. Unless it is the correct model for your vehicle and child’s build, and is fitted correctly, it is useless.
“The safest way for young children to travel in cars is with child seats which are suitable for their weight and size.
“A properly fitted restraint dramatically reduces the likelihood of a child being killed or injured, even with an impact speed of just 30mph.
“It is important that consumers make sure they keep the instructions, and seats should be inspected before every journey to check for faults and loose fitting.
“It is clear from the survey that parents are not regularly checking their seats, and unfortunately, this can lead to tragic accidents.”
Every year in the UK around 100,000 children are involved in crashes and the fitting of their car seat can have a serious impact on whether or not they are injured.
Most children receive little more than a jolt or shock but around 10,000 are hurt while 500 are seriously injured and around 40 killed.
Experts say that car seats should be suitable for the child’s size and the vehicle concerned.
It is strongly recommended that child seats should only be purchased from reputable retailers.
Further information on child car seat safety can be found by logging onto www.childcarseats.org.uk.
4/8/08
A team from Tavernspite CP School has won the 2008 Pembrokeshire Junior Road Safety Officer Competition. The pupils beat off a strong challenge from runners-up Hakin Junior School, Johnston CP School, Lamphey Primary School and St Oswald’s VA School to win the final.
Organised by Pembrokeshire County Council's Road Safety Unit, the competition was held at the Pembrokeshire Activity Centre in Pembroke Dock on 16th July.
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The winners of the 2008 Pembrokeshire Junior Road Safety Officer Competition, Tavernspite CP School. They are pictured with Kirstie-Anne Donoghue, Road Safety Education Assistant Officer at Pembrokeshire County Council. |
Pupils had to undertake several tasks including a road sign challenge, road safety quiz and hazard awareness. The winning pupils were presented with certificates, a shield and vouchers.
The teams consisted of Junior Road Safety Officers from Pembrokeshire, who have highlighted the issue of road safety at their primary schools throughout the year.
Councillor Jamie Adams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways and Planning, said the annual quiz had proved to be very successful and helped schools highlight the issue of road safety.
The schools which participated in the earlier stages of the competition were Angle VC School, Ysgol Ger Y Llan, Ysgol Gelli Aur/ Golden Grove, Ysgol Glannau Gwaun, Johnston CP School, Orielton CP School, Pembroke Dock CP School, Stepaside CP School, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, and Wolfscastle CP School.
4/8/08
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| 19-year-old Joe Bacchetta a University of Glamorgan journalism student from Porth, Rhondda Cynon Taf is the first recipient of the Pass Plus Cymru quarterly prize. Joe’s name was drawn from a list of all participants who returned their evaluation form on completion of the course. His Pass Plus Cymru ADI was Simon Hughes of SMS, Aberdare. |
The Pass Plus Cymru (PPC) Scheme continues to be a nationally recognised badge of excellence amongst post test young driver training programmes in Wales and continues to grow as it enters its 3rd year. During the period December 2007 to May 2008, 1,424 drivers undertook the course. Since the launch of the scheme itself in June 2006 over 4,000 novice drivers have participated.
The scheme continues to be advertised in a number of different ways with direct marketing at the Royal Welsh, the Urdd Eisteddfod and various other county shows, the Wales GB rally, bus shelters, via local youth groups and through radio and websites, although the support of ADIs remains critical. Measurement of participant’s feedback will ensure that scheme continues to develop and improve.
Although PPC funding is available as a result of a special grant from the Welsh Assembly Government, individual local authorities are responsible for allocating funding to the scheme as finance allows. This differs from County to County as needs of other road user groups are taken into account. Individual numbers of participants within Counties during the period December 2007 to May 2008 are detailed in the following table:
| Anglesey |
42 |
Merthyr |
48 |
| Blaenau Gwent |
22 |
Monmouthshire |
15 |
| Bridgend |
65 |
Neath Port Talbot |
50 |
| Caerphilly |
35 |
Newport |
39 |
| Cardiff |
89 |
Pembrokeshire |
53 |
| Carmarthenshire |
38 |
Powys |
139 |
| Ceredigion |
43 |
Rhondda Cynon Taff |
81 |
| Conwy |
103 |
Swansea |
143 |
| Denbighshire |
61 |
Torfaen |
32 |
| Flint |
71 |
Vale of Glamorgan |
135 |
| Gwynedd |
50 |
Wrexham |
68 |
All Pass Plus Cymru information and booking procedures can be found at www.dragondriver.com
1/8/08
Young musicians from the Dyfed Powys Police region performed anti-drug drive songs at the Royal Welsh Show as part of the Music Challenge run through the Mid and West Wales Road Safety Group. We are very grateful to YFC personnel who supported the campaign and allowed the final to be held on their stage.
The Music Challenge final saw three bands perform their anti-drug drive song which was kindly sponsored by Chevron (Pembroke Refinery).
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Mint Tuneage |
The awareness raising event formed part of the All Wales summer anti drug drive awareness campaign and the competition was run through the road safety units of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys.
The winner of the music challenge was Mint Tuneage from Carmarthenshire with their song ‘Dark Days Night’.
They received £250 for the band and £250 and a trophy for Queen Elizabeth High School, Carmarthen, who they represented.
The runners up were Delayed Seed with their song ‘Is It Worth It?’ from Lampeter Secondary School, Ceredigion; they received £150 for the band and £150 for their school.
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Delayed Seed |
Third place went to Welsh Bombshell with their song ‘Keep Drugs Off The Road’, from Newtown Youth Group, Powys who received £100 for the band.
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Welsh Bombshell |
Tom van Hamer, who won the anti drink drive final at Police Headquarters in June also performed his winning song ‘On The Road’.
Road Safety Officer Susan Storch for Dyfed Powys Police said: “We would like to thank all the young people who took part in the competition and the schools and youth groups they represented. All three acts performed to a high standard and the judges had a very difficult job in deciding the winners.”
“The Music Challenge started in Gwent through Capita Symonds in 2006 and they are now in their third year. Following on from their success we started running this competition through the Mid and West Wales Road Safety group last autumn and we hope to see this as an All Wales initiative in the near future.”
“This is a novel way of engaging with young people and getting across the very serious message of anti drug driving and we will continue to work very closely with all our partners as we start to plan for our second year!”
1/8/08
A Thought-provoking short film aimed at young drivers in Carmarthenshire is now being taken to every secondary school in Wales. The DVD, called Wheels of Misfortune, was produced by the Carmarthenshire Community Safety Partnership in a bid to help save lives and reduce the number of accidents on our roads.
The film was made in partnership with Tinopolis TV, based in Llanelli, and Trinity College, Carmarthen.
It was shot in and around the Carmarthen area and students from Trinity College were responsible for developing the script and also featured as the main characters.
The DVD was launched at the Urdd Eistedffod in Carmarthen in May last year and has been well received.
It will now be shown to Key Stage 3 pupils in all of the county’s secondary schools as well as every secondary school in Wales via the Police Liaison Programme.
Partnership chairman Mark James said: “Road safety, and speeding in particular, is a major concern for local communities. Here in Carmarthenshire we have already exceeded national targets to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions. However, there are still too many road collisions and casualties on our roads, and there is still much to be done.
“Younger drivers are more likely to be involved in a road traffic collision and are therefore more at risk of being killed or seriously injured. This film highlights some of the causes and wide-ranging effects of road traffic collisions in an attempt to change the attitude and behaviour of current and future young drivers.
“We are pleased this film will now be shown to youngsters across Wales, we make no excuses for the horrific images and thought-provoking message delivered so professionally in the DVD by the students themselves. If the message gets home and saves just one life then the effort everyone has put into its making is more than worthwhile.”
The Community Safety Partnership aims to make the county a safer place to live, work and visit.
This project was initiated by the partnership’s Road Safety Action Group which includes representatives from the council’s Community Safety Team and Road Safety Unit, Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Welsh Ambulance Service, and Safety Camera Partnership. The action group aims to reduce the number of casualties on the county’s roads.
30/7/08
Nearly sixty per cent of tyres checked by experts during a free public safety event were found to be dangerous or faulty in some way. What proved just as concerning for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council staff who carried out the tests were that the majority of visitors to the event were elderly or lone females – two of the most vulnerable groups of motorists.
Trading Standards Officers organised a tour of the county with a public information caravan, which stopped at Rhondda, Cynon and Taf earlier this month.
As well as offering essential information and advice, the officers also carried out tests on cars, focussing on four main safety areas:
1. The tread dept of each tyre
2. The air pressure in each tyre, measured against the manufacturer’s recommended figures
3. The presence of any uneven wear characteristics and
4. Any damage or deterioration.
Some 475 tyres were examined in total. Of these:
- 27 (six per cent) were found to have a tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm, affecting the handling and braking standards of the vehicles.
- 17 (four per cent) were found to exhibit uneven wear characteristics, indicating a wheel alignment or suspension problem.
- 21 (four per cent) were deemed to have wear and tear on the side walls that could compromise the integrity of the tyre and pose a safety risk.
It was advised that all of the above 65 tyres be replaced as a matter of urgency.
A further 168 (35 per cent) of tyres tested were found to be seriously underflated compared to the recommended pressure for the model, which could have a serious impact on the braking and handling of the vehicle. A further 42 tyres were found to be over-inflated, which can cause the same safety issues.
All vehicles with over or under inflated tyres were returned to the correct tyre pressure by officers with a calibrated air compressor before the consumers left the event.
Cllr John David, Cabinet member for Communities, said: “These important events are part of the ongoing proactive work by Trading Standards officers to protect and educate the public.
“The results once again reinforced the findings of previous years, that there are major problems on many of the vehicles residents are using.
“Many of them expressed their surprise at the findings, but the simple solution is, tyres must be checked regularly as part as the ongoing maintenance of cars.”
25/7/08
The second Annual JRSO Get-Together for Vale of Glamorgan Primary Schools was recently held at the Memorial Hall & Theatre in Barry.
Some 56 children from 11 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.
The day included each group of JRSOs making their own presentations to the audience, a visit from road safety mascot ‘Spike the Hedgehog’ and demonstrations by the crew from Barry Fire Station, who showed interested parties some of the equipment they used for rescuing people who were trapped in their vehicles after a road traffic accident as well as an actual crashed car scenario with dummies. Inspector Wayne Tucker from South Wales Police then led a question-and-answer session with the JRSOs commenting on how important their jobs in schools were. 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.
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, 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.
The JRSO Scheme started four years ago in Vale of Glamorgan primary schools with an initial 6 joining at first, rising to its present total of 25 schools. It is eventually hoped that all primary schools will have their own Junior Road Safety Officers.
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, especially all at the Memorial Hall who stepped in to host the event at the last minute. The JRSOs were a credit to their schools and themselves and their energy and enthusiasm in spreading the word of road safety was simply amazing. We look forward to another successful year in 2008/9’.
If any primary school is interested in taking part in the Junior Road Safety Officer (JRSO) Scheme, please contact John Rogers on 01446 704773 or e-mail JDRogers@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
24/7/08
Aspiring young pop stars from Carmarthenshire have been hitting the road with their own anti drink and drug driving anthems.
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Drink and drug-drive anthem songsters in the front row are: Scott Samuel, Mint Tuneage, Tom Van Hamer; Georgie Tipping and Tristan Mudd, both Mint Tuneage. Back row are Tracey Lewis, Carmarthenshire council road safety events co-ordinator; Nicola Davies, assistant road safety officer and Keith Griffiths, road safety manager.
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Singers and bands from across county took to the stage for an X-Factor style music contest tasked with coming up with educational songs to highlight the dangers of drink and drug drivers.
The winners of the challenge were Tom Van Hamer representing Streets Youth Project Amman Valley Comprehensive with the anti drink driving song and Mint Tuneage from Queen Elizabeth High with the anti drug driving song.
Both went on to represent Carmarthenshire in the Dyfed Powys Police area finals and both came first in their respective competitions at the Royal Welsh Show.
The council’s road safety manager Keith Griffiths said: “We are constantly looking at new ways of educating people about road safety issues, and this music challenge was an innovative way of engaging with young people.
“It encouraged them to think about the dangers of driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We were very pleased with the response from schools and youth groups.
“It is greatly encouraging to see the winning candidates going on to spread their important message further afield.”
22/7/08
Flintshire County Council’s Road Safety Unit has launched the highly successful Junior Road Safety Officers scheme.
The initiative has been run in other parts of the country and is an effective way of promoting road safety. Four schools are already on board in Flintshire - Mynydd Isa Juniors, Ysgol Bryn Gwalia Mold, Ysgol Sychdyn and Ysgol Y From Holywell.
Junior Road Safety Officers help their local Road Safety Officer to promote road safety issues within the local community. Each primary school is encouraged to appoint two JRSOs from year 6.
The main aim of the scheme is to give children the opportunity to identify road safety problems within their own school area and helps them to pass important messages to their peers about keeping safe when they are out and about.
Schools who wish to take part in the scheme are required to nominate two pupils from year 6 to act as JRSOs. With assistance and guidance from Claire Parry Road Safety Assistant, Junior Road Safety Officers will promote different road safety topics such as be safe, be seen, cycle safety, in car safety, the Green Cross Code, parking outside schools, walking to school and many more. All Junior Road Safety Officers receive a starter pack which includes a handbook, information and advice to help them with their very important role.
The scheme is informative and fun and the benefits to the JRSOs and to other pupils far outweigh the time allocated to the scheme.
The current JRSOs have arranged competitions within their own schools to encourage all the pupils to think about Road Safety. Mynydd Isa Juniors ran a competition to design a parking ticket for illegal parking outside their school and to re-enforce the dangers of parking on zigzag markings; Ysgol Y Fron- Holywell arranged a poster competition emphasising Walking to School and what benefits this brings and Ysgol Sychdyn arranged a poster competition to design a road safety character, they also arranged a Walk to School event and are hoping to run a road safety quiz before the end of term. Ysgol Bryn Gwalia, Mold has organised three competitions- infants will look at safe places to play, year 3 and 4 will explore the Green Cross Code and year 5 and 6 will look at seatbelt wearing.
Flintshire County Council’s executive member for Environment, Councillor Tony Sharps, said: “The JRSOs have all worked extremely hard putting together their competitions, which have all proved to be a great success within the schools and the communities. Well done to all schools who are already taking part.”
18/7/08
Following the recent success of the All Wales Summer Anti Drink Drive campaign, the Welsh police forces are joining together for a campaign targeting drug drivers. Dyfed Powys Police are leading the All Wales Anti Drug Driving Awareness Campaign which will be launched at 11a.m on Monday the 21 July at the YFC stand in the Royal Welsh Show.
For the launch, a Music Challenge will take place aimed at young people aged from 14 to 26 years. The challenge involved getting a band/group together and producing a song about the issues and dangers of drug driving.
Each Local Authority from the Dyfed Powys region will have a band to represent their county at the final. The overall winner will be judged and announced on the day. The winner of the Summer Anti Drink Driving Launch will also be there to perform their winning song. 
Assistant Chief Constable of Dyfed Powys Police, Mr Nicholas Ingram said:
“The message that drinking and driving is illegal and will not be tolerated is well known and has been used for years - but it's vitally important for everyone to be aware that taking drugs and driving is also illegal and will not be tolerated. This is also a lethal combination - people who take drugs and drive run the risk of killing themselves and other innocent road users. By engaging with youngsters on this issue, and getting them to think of the dangers through a medium they enjoy - hopefully the message will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
17/7/08
More than 75% of child car seats failed basic safety requirements during a recent Trading Standards exercise in Bridgend County Borough.
One forward-facing seat was even found to pose a potentially fatal risk as it was totally unsuitable for the child using it, who should have been in a rear-facing seat.
The annual free safety check was organised at the Waterton branch of Tesco by Trading Standards officers from Bridgend County Borough Council alongside road safety advisors and independent experts.
Says Lee Jones, Acting Head of Trading Standards: “Many of the 150 drivers who took up the offer of the free safety check were shocked at the results.
“You only have to crash at 30mph for an unrestrained child to be thrown forward with a force 30 to 60 times their own body weight. As well as hurting themselves, they could also seriously injure or even kill other passengers in the vehicle.
“Properly fitted child restraints keep children in their seats and prevent them from being thrown about inside or out of a vehicle. Impact force is also absorbed, giving a child a better survival rate.
“The safest way for children to travel in cars is in a child seat that is suitable for their weight and size.
“Although the 75% failure rate is disappointing, it highlights the need for further safety events to reinforce the message to drivers.”
16/7/08
Buses taking children to and from school in Swansea are to be fitted with CCTV following the announcement of funding from the Welsh Assembly to make school transport safer. Part of the funding is also likely to be used to produce a guide giving children advice on how to behave responsibly when travelling on buses.
In total, £626,000 has been awarded to the South West Wales Transport Consortium (SWWITCH) which includes Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.
Transport officials in Swansea Council say they have already developed a code of practice for school transport operators and want to add a more detailed guide for distribution to pupils who travel on buses.
Two dedicated officers have also been employed by the SWWITCH consortium to oversea the project and consult on plans with schools and transport operators across the region.
John Hague, Cabinet Member for the Environment in Swansea Council has welcomed the news of the funding. He said, "Our overall aim is to ensure standards of school travel in terms of safety and security are as high as possible. We have thousands of school children traveling by bus and we want to get them to their destination safely.
"This money will provide us and the other authorities with the opportunity to improve things further."
Cath Swain, Swansea Council's Team Leader for Passenger Transport, said, "We currently provide around 4,000 pupils in Swansea with transport to school along around 100 different routes. From time to time we receive reports of bad behaviour and previous discussions with transport operators and schools have highlighted the benefits of installing CCTV.
"The funding will give us the opportunity to look at these measures as well as publishing a code of practice for pupils that they can sign up to."
15/7/08
The three Fire and Rescue Services in Wales made their intention to drive down road traffic collision casualties very clear when they launched the all Wales Fire and Rescue Service Road Safety Strategy on Thursday 10 July.
The strategy is the first official and national pledge to the communities of Wales that Welsh Fire and Rescue Services will do all they can to help reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads in Wales.
Working in collaboration, South Wales, North Wales and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Services have spent the last year developing the strategy which is published this month.
All three Fire and Rescue Service’s Principal Fire Officers and Chairs of the Fire Authorities visited the World Rescue Wales event at Cardiff International Arena on Thursday to mark the launch. World Rescue Wales showcases the skills of Firefighters from all over the globe in extricating and rescuing casualties from crashed vehicles.
Chair of the All-Wales group, Assistant Chief Fire Officer Kevin Barry of South Wales said,
“Rescues at Road Traffic Collisions have become a huge part of our operational response in recent years and Firefighters see the harsh consequences of dangerous driving every day. We are already working closely with our partners involved in road safety education and this strategy will strengthen these partnerships, helping us to achieve a common goal.”
Chair of South Wales Fire Authority, Councillor Anthony Ernest said,
“This document represents a strong commitment from the Fire Authorities to the reduction in Road Traffic Collision casualties in Wales. We have long worked to the theory that prevention is better than the cure with fires, and in our duty as a primary rescuer at road traffic collisions, we want to work with the same concept for road safety. The all Wales approach gives consistency to the proactive the work we do.”
The Wales Fire and Rescue Service Strategy is designed to support both the national road safety strategy for Wales and the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA) Road Safety Group Strategy.
Download the All Wales Fire and Rescue Service Road Safety Strategy here PDF format 1.15mb
14/7/08
More drivers than ever before have been breath tested during an All Wales summer anti drink drive campaign, but less than 5 per cent were found to be over the legal limit.
Over 12,000 drivers were breath tested by the four Welsh forces in the campaign which ran from June 1 to June 30. This compares to 7,970 in 2007.
Of these 4.2 per cent proved positive which compares to 5 per cent for the previous year.
The percentage of drivers giving a positive test after collisions was 6.5 per cent.
The number of under 25s breath tested was 3,635 with 353 positive, refused or failed to provide; which equates to 4.2 per cent.
In Dyfed Powys Police one of those arrested was just 15 and found to be over the legal limit.
Deputy Chief Constable of Dyfed Powys Police, Andy Edwards, said: “It is pleasing that the percentage of positive tests has fallen.
“What is concerning is the number of people found to be over the legal drink drive limit following collisions. This clearly demonstrates the serious risk they are putting themselves and others at.
“All the Welsh forces target drink driving throughout the year and our message is simple – if you drink don’t drive.”
14/7/08
A pair of budding young artists from Cymmer Infants School are slowing speeding traffic in their own community. The schoolchildren won first prize in a ‘Design a Sign’ competition as part of the Cymmer Safe Routes to School - 20mph ‘Gateway’ signing.
Children were given the task of designing a sign that would convey to drivers that they would be entering a 20mph zone and they would need to slow down. The signs had to be innovative, colourful and to include big bold letters.
The quality and quantity of entries was so great that it was decided to award prizes to two age categories in the school – for the nursery and infants departments.
The two winners were Ffion Romans from the reception class and Emily Vaughan from the Infants department. Both children received a £15 gift token and a framed copy of their own award-winning signs that will be placed on each side of Catherine Street. A copy was also presented to the school for display.
Second prizes of £10 tokens were presented to Rhys Yorath in the reception class and Jamie Jones in the infants while a third prize of £5 was also presented to reception class pupil Jade Williams and infants pupil Sophie Smallman.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Customer Care Cllr Andrew Morgan was accompanied by ward member Cllr Margaret Tegg to present the awards.
Cllr Morgan said: “All of the designs we received for the competition were brilliant and it was a great way to introduce road safety to the children at Cymmer.
“It is vital that children and young people are made aware of road safety as soon as possible and innovative methods like this help to give the information and guidance needed to stay safe on the roads.”
“The fact that the signs have been designed by children themselves should also impress upon drivers the importance of driving safely near the school and within the legal speed limits”.
14/7/08
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| Dysynni area pupils learn about the rules of the road with Meinir Gwilym |
Gwynedd Council has staged a roadshow around Meirionnydd schools where primary pupils in Key Stage 1 learnt more about road safety.
As part of the roadshow, pupils had the opportunity to sing along with the popular singer Meinir Gwilym, whilst also learning about the rules of the road. The children also had the chance to meet Carys Ofalus (Careful Carys), Gwynedd Council's road safety character, and Carys the cat taught the children about safely crossing the road.
Claire Evans, Gwynedd Council Road Safety Officer said:
"Ensuring that Gwynedd's youngest pupils learn about road safety is vitally important, and we hope that by learning in a fun and different way as part of these roadshows mean that the children will remember the important lessons.
"We are delighted that Meinir Gwilym joined the roadshow and that the children had the chance to sing songs which remind them to wear a seatbelt in the car, and to take care when they're out cycling on the road. Learning simple rules like these can make a huge difference to the safety of children on the roads."
9/7/08
Over the course of a busy BikeSafe weekend, nine lady riders covered over 200 miles on a wide variety of road types and conditions (mostly wet and windy!)
The workshop, run by 5 Police advanced riders and two paramedics, provided a mix of theory and practical sessions and included on-road assessment rides, information videos, motorcycle related first aid and other relevant issues.
Designed to enhance the skills of all riders who have already passed their tests, BikeSafe workshops are particularly suitable for those that may be returning to biking after a period of absence and sports bike riders.
All the participants were very enthusiastic about their BikeSafe experience and said their riding would be much improved as a result.
Click here for remaining BikeSafe Cymru workshop dates.
9/7/08
'Out of the Blue' hosted by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is taking place in Bute Park on 11th (schools only) and 12th July 2008 (open to public) and is completely FREE to attend!
Last summer, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service organised a similar and highly successful two day 'Rescue Cymru' community safety event at Cardiff Castle. This was an extremely well organised and enjoyable event, but don’t just take our word for it, have a look at what the many partners and some of the thousands of visitors had to say...
9/7/08
Supported by Chevron Texaco
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.
There are five award categories:
Community Award - Recognising the work of Voluntary Groups, Health Authorities and partnerships involved in road accident prevention.
Education Award - For staff and pupils/students who have undertaken innovative road safety projects and other road safety activity.
Individual Award - For anyone in Wales who has shown a sustained or unique contribution to road safety and accident prevention.
Commercial Award - For businesses and organisations in Wales who have supported and/or encouraged road safety promotion.
School Crossing Patrol Award - Recognising an individual school crossing patrol who has shown dedication and commitment to their position over a sustained period of time.
Nominations should be submitted on the following form, (accompanied by any relevant supporting material) no later than Friday 22 August 2008. The Award winners will be invited to receive their Award at the Road Safety Wales Conference dinner on Monday 29 September 2008 at the Future Inns, Cardiff. The Award winners in each category will receive £100 and a souvenir gift.
Click here for Nomination Form
2007 Road Safety Award Winners
7/7/08
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council has launched a Try Cycling to Work Programme for its employees. The Cycle Experience Company, with extensive experience in cycle training and promotional services was commissioned by the Road Safety section to support and help set up the programme and get people cycling, more safely, more often.
The Try Cycling to Work programme, led by Jill Harper, Road Safety Officer of the Authority's Road Safety Section, is part of Merthyr Tydfil CBC’s efforts to encourage healthier lifestyles. It aims to give those who sign up to the programme the opportunity to experience the health benefits, fun and time and money savings that can be achieved by cycling to work rather than by travel by car or public transport.
The programme asked employees to register for a four week period from June 4th – July 4th, and cycle to and from work as often as possible during this time. 28 employees signed up to take on the challenge and were provided with a quality bike, accessories, advice on route planning, cycle commuting and cycle security. They were also encouraged to use the bikes and equipment for leisure purposes.
At the end of the 4 weeks employees will be offered the chance to purchase the bike and/or the accessories normally at a minimum of 30% off the usual retail price. If they don’t wish to do so they simply return them on the final day. There is no cost to employees to take part. Each registered employee will be in with a chance of winning a bike at the end of the challenge after pre and post questionnaires have been completed.
4/7/08
The Annual Road Safety Illustrated Poem Competition was another resounding success for many young people from Gwent. The winners claimed their prizes at an evening event at County Hall Cwmbran on Tuesday 17th June.
A total of 527 poems were entered from junior and senior pupils across the Gwent region into this year’s Competition, which was run jointly by the Road Safety Team at Capita Symonds and Heddlu Gwent Police. The standard of entries was very high with some innovative ideas and high levels of thought, motivation and common sense.
The prizes and certificates were presented by Mike Tonge, Chief Constable of Heddlu Gwent Police, who was delighted to have his photograph taken afterwards with each of the children and their poems.
The highest number of senior entries came from Duffryn Comprehensive School, Newport and Vicky Carey, the English teacher collected their award from Mr Tonge. Vicky said:-
“We found the project to be of great interest across all the year groups that entered. The year 9 and 10 groups were very aware of the dangers and very sensible in their approach to the task. It was surprising how many features the pupils were able to recognise in relation to in car safety.”
Vicky continued, “However, many of our younger pupils did tend to focus on the main features they see on TV – driving too fast, drink driving, etc. It would be nice if there was greater awareness made of the distractions that can occur in the car – talking to the driver, asking them to look at something other than the road, music blasting, eating and drinking at the wheel, mobile phones, etc. The teachers involved in this competition often had to point out these obvious factors that impact on driving and in car safety. It is unfortunate that advertisements and publicity tend to focus on accidents and car crashes than the factors that actually cause the incidents.”
Junior
Gweniver Exton, Osbaston CIW School
Daisy Legdon, St James Primary
: Bethan Williams, St James Primary
Best School: Gilfach Fargoed Primary
Senior
Fern Price Heolddu Comprehensive
Sarah Price Monmouth Comprehensive
Jessica Broom Heolddu Comprehensive
Best School: Duffryn School
3/7/08
The annual Road Safety Quiz organised by Neath Port Talbot's Road Safety Unit with South Wales Police and hosted by the Apollo Cinema at Port Talbot was the biggest ever.
Pictured with winners Crynallt Junior School are l-r Sergeant Ioan Howell, Head of Highways Neath Port Talbot Council John Flower, Manager Apollo Cinema Tim Morgan and council officer Helen Griffiths
In its 11th year thirteen primary schools had battled through to the final stages and the event was attended by almost 50 schools from across the county borough.And after five rounds of tense questioning there were three schools just one point apart at the top of the league table.
The eventual winner was Crynallt Junior School of Cimla with 90 points and Sandfields and Cwmavon just one point behind as runners-up.
All the teams received individual plaques to commemorate their achievements whilst Crynallt Junior School had the pleasure of taking the School's winning trophy back to their school for another year. Every pupil who entered the competition received individual certificates.
The competition was split into four rounds on road safety and one on general knowledge and while the scores were being verified the pupils enjoyed popcorn and drinks and a preview of some of this years new releases.
Cabinet Board Member for Streetcare and Highway Services Councillor Arwel Woolcock said: "We are delighted by the support from our teaching staff for this important initiative.
"The enthusiasm of the children and the knowledge gained in Road Safety is an important lesson that will stay with them for life. My congratulations to Crynallt Junior School, Cwmafan Junior and Sandfields Primary School as well as all the other competitors who took part.
"The 2008 Quiz was an extremely enjoyable and beneficial event for all. I would also like to convey my thanks to the Apollo Cinema for donating the use of their cinema and South Wales Police for their continued support."
2/7/08
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| Actress Manon Ellis with the pupils of Ysgol Glan Cegin, Bangor as they learn about road safety |
Keeping to simple but important rules - that was the message recently shared with the pupils of Ysgol Glan Cegin, Bangor as they received road safety certificates as part of the Kerbcraft scheme.
As they completed part of the Kerbcraft road safety course with the support of Gwynedd Council's Road Safety Unit, Ysgol Glan Cegin pupils were paid a visit by actress Manon Ellis who plays Michelle in the popular Welsh TV show, "Rownd a Rownd".
After going out and about with the pupils, Manon Ellis presented the children with their well deserved certificates. As part of the Kerbcraft scheme, the children have gained understanding and knowledge by going out in the local area to learn how to stay safe on the side of the road, and the certificates acknowledge their hard work.
The Kerbcraft Scheme teaches children between 5 - 7 to walk along the road safely by taking them out to the side of the road and show them that making the right decisions and acting appropriately can help them keep safe. The children are taken out of the schools in groups of no more than three by specially trained volunteers.
As part of the lessons, children:
The children are helped to identify dangers and find safer places to cross.
The children are taught to use a safe strategy to cross near parked cars - if the situations are unavoidable.
Children are introduced to the problems near simple and more complicated junctions, and they are taught a strategy to look systematically to all directions.
Find out more...
2/7/08
Lives of young drivers are being put at risk by dealers selling unroadworthy, second-hand cars, Powys County Council has warned.
The council’s Trading Standards Service is highlighting work by their national colleagues involving a test purchase exercise which revealed five out of eight second-hand cars bought during a recent undercover operation were not safe to be driven.
Clive Jones, the council’s Principal Trading Standards Officer, said: “Defects found by this work were shocking – the cars were unsafe to use and had no place on a road, so no place on a trader’s forecourt.
“It’s a serious offence to sell or to offer for sale a vehicle that doesn’t comply with the laws that govern the construction and use of motor vehicles. There is no element of ‘buyer beware’ and in no circumstance is ignorance of the law an excuse.
“No matter what you pay for a vehicle, you’re entitled to expect that it is safe, roadworthy and complies with the law. Test purchasing exercises such as this one are vital to protect the consumer against buying dangerous vehicles.
“The poor condition of vehicles is a common contributory factor in road traffic accidents and this new survey shows that there are a lot of death-trap vehicles on the market. For every accident we can prevent by urging drivers to get cars checked before they buy, the better. We urge all young motorists to get a car checked by an independent engineer before buying it or insist on a full MOT before purchasing it.
“Consumers should buy from legitimate businesses that will have inspected the vehicles before putting them on sale - people should be advised that they are taking a greater risk when they buy cars from the roadside.
”The best advice we can give is always insist on a full, new MOT certificate as this gives basic safety protection and an indication of engine function. If motorists find any problems with a vehicle they have just purchased, they should contact Consumer Direct.”
Call Consumer Direct telephone 08454 04 05 06 or 08454 04 05 05 for their Welsh-speaking services or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
2/7/08
An electronic facility has been set up to petition the Prime Minister to consider a change to the current system of British Summer Time, in support of RoSPA's campaign to reduce accidents:
petitions.pm.gov.uk/betteruseofsun/.
Join us in our campaign to reduce road deaths.
2/7/08
Cyclists will be getting a helping hand to make sure their thirsts are quenched on this year's Gower Bike Ride.
Road Safety Officers from Swansea Council will be handing out 500 specially designed water bottles to the first 500 riders over the line when the event takes place this Sunday (July 6).
Hundreds of cyclists will be making their way along the 29-mile circular route around Gower with the start and finish at St Helen's Recreation Ground. The event, organised by the British Heart Foundation, also consists of a shorter 16-mile route for those feeling slightly less energetic.
Jeff Green, Swansea Council's Road Safety Officer, said, "We are always really happy to support the annual Gower Bike Ride. We aim to try and pass on tips to riders to enable them to keep safe while they cycle. Last year we wanted to get more cyclists to wear helmets.
"We are giving away water bottles this year to the first 500 who cross the finishing line. Everyone taking part should make sure they take plenty to drink."
Mali James, Event Organiser for the British Heart Foundation, said, "We are really grateful to Swansea Council and the Road Safety Team for supporting this popular event.
"The event always encourages cyclists from all around the region to take part and help raise money for the charity. This year we are delighted that local boxing hero Enzo Maccarinelli is taking part.
"If you still have not registered to take part in the bike ride you can still do so on the day of the event between 8.30am and 10am. The event has a new start time this year between 9am and 10am - so be sure to be there before 10am to join the hundereds on the course."
For more information on the Gower Bike Ride or any other events that are organised by The British Heart Foundation visit www.bhf.org.uk
1/7/08
Lansdowne Primary School, who recently became Cardiff School's Road Safety Quiz champions are now South Wales Primary School Road Safety Quiz champions.
The final was held at South Wales Police Headquarters in Bridgend on Friday 20th June and the team beat five other schools that represented local authorities across South Wales. The annual competition is co-ordinated by South Wales Police and sponsored by Lion Laboratories.
1/7/08
Swansea's favourite road safety hero is hitting the road to help spread the message of being safe on the road to thousands of children.
Rocky the Road Safety Rooster has been handed the keys to a brand new vehicle which will help give Swansea Council's Road Safety Team more opportunity to teach vital road safety lessons in local schools.
FRF Chevrolet Swansea has kindly donated a vehicle to the Council for use by the Road Safety Team.
Jeff Green, Swansea Council's Casualty Reduction Officer, said, "we are really grateful towards our own Sponsorship and Promotions Officer and FRF Chevrolet for giving the team the opportunity to spread the message of road safety far and wide."
26/6/08
The latest National Statistics on Road Casualties produced by the Welsh Assembly Government were released on 26 June 2008 according to the arrangements approved by the UK Statistics Authority.
Statistics on Road Casualties include data for Wales for the period up to the end of December 2007. The latest release updates the statistics previously released on 28 June 2007.
Statistical Release 91/2008 PDF format 154kb
- During 2007 there were 8,340 road accidents involving personal injury recorded by the police in Wales, 361 (4 per cent) fewer than in 2006.
- These accidents resulted in 12,271 casualties, 421 (3 per cent) fewer than in 2006. Within this total:
- 162 people were killed on Welsh roads, 1 (1 per cent) fewer than in 2006;
- 1,241 people were seriously injured in 2007, 31 (3 per cent) more than in 2006;
- 10,868 people were slightly injured, a decrease of 451 (4 per cent) compared to the previous year.
26/6/08
The Department of Transport has today published National Statistics on road casualties in Great Britain in 2007, which relate to casualties in accidents reported to the police.
Key results include:
* The number of people killed in road accidents fell, by 7 per cent from 3,172 in 2006 to 2,943 in 2007.
* The number of children killed or seriously injured in 2007 was 3,090 (down 6 per cent on 2006). 121 children died on the roads, 20 per cent fewer than in 2006, this is the lowest ever recorded figure.
* There were 644 pedestrian deaths, 5 per cent less than in 2006.
* The number of pedal cyclists killed fell by 7 per cent from 146 in 2006 to 136 in 2007.
* There were 588 motorcycle user fatalities in 2007, 2 per cent lower than during 2006. The all motorcycle user casualties figure for 2007 of 23,459 is 1 per cent higher than in 2006.
In 2000, the Government announced a new road safety strategy and set new targets for reducing casualties by 2010. It wants to see:
* 40% reduction in the number of people killed or seriously injured in road accidents compared with the average for 1994-98;
* 50% reduction in the number of children killed or seriously injured;
* 10% reduction in the slight casualty rate, expressed as the number of people slightly injured per 100 million vehicle kilometres.
In 2007, the number of people killed or seriously injured was 36 per cent below the 1994-98 average; the number of children killed or seriously injured was 55 per cent below the 1994-98 average; and provisional estimates show the slight casualty rate was 30 per cent below the 1994-98 average.
More key results....
Download the full report PDF format 483kb
26/6/08
AIRSO is to hold a Road Safety Conference at the Angel Hotel in Cardiff on Tuesday 1st July 2008 in association with the Welsh Assembly Government and RoSPA Wales on the subject of Managing Occupational Road Risk and the Implications of the Corporate Manslaughter Act. For more details of the conference visit the AIRSO in Wales page.
25/6/08
Plans for a national cycle training standard across Wales were announced today in a bid to improve safety and the take-up of cycling amongst children and young people.
At a Walking and Cycling and Conference in Cardiff, the Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, Jane Davidson, said the Welsh Assembly Government would be investing £250,000 to train more than 100 instructors to teach the new standards across Wales.
The aim is to increase the number of qualified instructors that can deliver cycle training to a consistent standard that prepares children and adults to cycle on today’s roads. Ms Davidson said:
The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to getting more people to cycle – as a form of transport; as a means of becoming more physically active; and as a way of getting out and enjoying our countryside.
We all need to reduce our carbon footprint, and cycling can help to make a real difference here – especially since the majority of car journeys are less than 5 miles long. With the cost of motoring on the rise, cycling is a cheap, healthy, and sustainable means of transport.
So I’m delighted to announce today this new initiative which the Assembly Government is funding this year to encourage more people to cycle.
The Cycle Training National Standards have already been adopted by a small number of local authorities in Wales, but the new money and the partnership with CTC - the UK’s national cyclists' organisation - will help ensure coverage across Wales.
Working with the CTC Charitable Trust and the Sports Council, the £250,000 funding over three years will be used to get the National Standards adopted across Wales alongside the successful Bikeability brand.
CTC Director Kevin Mayne said:
We call Bikeability cycling proficiency for the 21st Century. It gives parents and children the confidence to make their daily journeys by bike under real conditions. We are delighted that the Welsh Assembly is encouraging more people to cycle. The funding will also enable us to employ a Cycle Training Development Officer who will be dedicated to supporting all the providers of cycling activities in Wales as they get more people on their bikes.
Ms Davidson said:
CTC estimate that around 10% of year 6 pupils in Wales receive some cycle training, but rarely is this undertaken on roads. We want to see this changed dramatically through a programme of work to get over 100 instructors trained in the National Standards who will then provide appropriate cycle training to schools and to adults. A new project officer is also being recruited to help co-ordinate this work.
25/6/08
Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council Road Safety Unit held its fourth annual Junior Road Safety Officers Conference at the Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot.
Since the Junior Road Safety Officers club started in January 2004, 46 Primary and Junior Schools have set up the scheme. The aim of the club is to highlight road safety issues around their school and local communities, through specially appointed Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSOs) who are elected to carry out the role at their school.
The Conference provided the opportunity for JRSOs to pool information and ideas, to share best practice and to further promote road safety in a fun and enjoyable way. JRSOs also displayed road safety work completed throughout the year at their school.
During the conference there were a number of interactive workshops and activities in which the JRSOs participated.
Councillor Arwyn Woolcock, Cabinet Board Member for Streetcare and highway services said: "I was delighted to see so many Junior Road Safety Officers at this conference, which provided an excellent opportunity for sharing knowledge and ideas on road safety issues.
"The Junior Road Safety Officers have worked hard throughout the year and I would like to extend my thanks to all those schools that continue to support such a worthwhile initiative."
The conference was also attended by officers from South Wales Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and the authorities Survey team, adding to the experiences gained by pupils.
24/6/08
A new walking and cycle path has been opened near Newtown. The 3km route between Llanllwchaiarn and Aberbechan will provide a safe and accessible route alongside the line of the Montgomery canal.
The traffic-free path will open up opportunities for local people to travel in a more sustainable and healthy way. The new section of route is part of the National Cycle Network route 81 from Aberystwyth to Shrewsbury.
The £70,000 project has been co-ordinated by Powys County Council and funded by British Waterways, Countryside Council for Wales and the Sports Council for Wales. Assistance was also provided by Severn Trent Water and Sustrans.
Councillor Gwilym Evans, Powys County Council’s Board Member with portfolio for cycling and road safety, said: "We are delighted this route has been opened. The path is accessible to all - from cyclists and walkers to wheelchair and pushchair users - making it a valuable local asset.
"The project shows how well partnership working and funding can work to develop an excellent facility for all of the community. It is hoped the in the future it will be possible to attract funding to link up further sections of the route to expand it to Abermule."
24/6/08
Fun for All the Family!
Sunday June 29 2008
12 – 5pm
Waterton, Bridgend
South Wales Police will open its doors on Sunday 29th June, as an open invitation is extended to the public of South Wales to come and see what they do, why and how they do it – and you can even have the opportunity to have a go!
South Wales Police has taken delivery of a brand new state of the art helicopter and it will be unveiled to you – the public – for the very first time at the Open Day.
Other stalls and exhibitions include the Force museum, community safety and lots of children’s activities including archery and driving pursuit.
Road safety skills can be tested through trying the automated skid pan, and you can be put through your paces at trying the police fitness test and army assault course.
Among old favourites and returning to the event this year, are the fascinating displays by the dogs and horses, as well as demonstrations from the police cars, bikes and the police sub-aqua unit.
The Global Village will also be in full swing once again, bringing together displays, cuisine, music, dancing, arts and crafts from a variety of cultures, demonstrating the richness and cultural diversity found within the South Wales Police area.
Visitors are encouraged to speak to the officers about their roles and the ever growing part they play in keeping the communities of South Wales safer places to live, work and visit.
Each year the collection from the Force’s Open Day is used to support a charity or cause close to the heart of South Wales. This year is no exception with all the money being raised from donations and contributions going to Barnardo's Cymru.
Event co-ordinator, Chief Inspector Phil Ashby said:
“The Police Communities Open Day is a fantastic way for members of every community to informally meet their local police officers and find out a little more about the work they carry out”.
“Last year’s event was a real success, with over 6,000 Visitors enjoying the many activities on offer throughout the day.
“Entry to the site is completely free of charge, and with every penny earned during the event going towards a good cause, I would personally like to encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun”.
Find out what's on. where and when...
20/6/08
Parents and carers in the Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff are being offered a free opportunity to check their babies and toddlers are safely strapped in as part of an ongoing campaign highlighting the dangers of ill-fitting car seats.
Every year, hundreds of children are killed or seriously injured while travelling in vehicles, and the proper use of child car restraints would prevent many of these deaths and injuries. It is estimated that 70 per cent of children’s car seats are fitted incorrectly.
The campaign is backed by the trading standards and road safety teams at the Vale and Cardiff councils, and experts will be on hand at the Tesco store at Culverhouse Cross on Wednesday, 25 June, between 9.30am and 4pm to demonstrate the safest way of fitting child seats. No booking is required and parents and carers are welcome to drop in at any time.
During the campaign, parents and carers will be encouraged to ensure their children are securely belted up for every journey in a restraint suitable both for the child's size and the vehicle. They will also be warned of the dangers of second hand car seats. It is estimated that around one in 10 second hand car seats currently in use could be dangerous because they have already been involved in a collision.
Vale principal trading standards officer Simon Wilkinson said: "It's not enough just to purchase a car seat. Unless it is the correct model for your vehicle and child's build, and is fitted correctly, it will not offer the full protection that your child deserves.
"We would especially encourage parents to be to come along to the event with their cars, and seek the advice of our experts before they buy a car seat for any imminent arrivals. It only takes a few minutes and could, ultimately, save a child’s life.”
Further information on car seat safety can be found by logging onto www.childcarseats.org.uk.
19/6/08
Pembrokeshire Children’s Traffic Club has celebrated its fourth year helping children in the County to stay safe.
The anniversary was celebrated in the Nursery at Tenby Infants School. Guests to the party were delighted when the three-year-olds sang the clubs official song. The children also enjoyed party food and games.
Three and four-year-olds learn through play and fun and the Children’s Traffic Club pack is an excellent resource for all parents and guardians to use to encourage the teaching of road safety at such a vulnerable age.
Club activity books introduce friends such as Sammy Seatbelt, Larry Look and Lucy Listen.
Health Visitors from the local health trust deliver invites to the children at their 36 month check up. Membership is free as the registration fee is paid by Pembrokeshire County Council from funding given by the Welsh Assembly Government.Once parents/guardians have registered, their child will receive their first book, followed by a further five every three months after.
Said Pembrokeshire County Councillor Jamie Adams, Cabinet Member for Highways and Planning: “The Children’s Traffic Club is an effective and proven way to deliver road safety to pre-school children. However, the club has received only a 40 per cent uptake in the past year. We would like to see more parents take up the opportunity to receive this free resource for their children.”
The message is reinforced at school early years units, playgroups and nurseries through the Children’s Traffic Club Nursery Pack, where invitations can also be obtained.
* Nursery packs can be acquired free of charge to all school early years units, playgroups and nurseries by contacting County Council road safety education officer Kirstie-Anne Donoghue, Road Safety Education officer, on 01437 775434.
www.trafficclub.co.uk
19/6/08
Police in the Vale of Glamorgan are combining Operation Rock with the All Wales Police summer drink drive campaign as it targets irresponsible motorists on the county’s roads.
Operation Rock is a longstanding campaign which is intended to improve driver behaviour, and reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries on the local roads.The aim of the operation is to target those drivers who are driving inappropriately, or in a dangerous manner and provide as much education, information and ultimately enforcement as is necessary to ensure casualty reduction in the Vale of Glamorgan is kept low.
The operation this month has focussed on the main routes into Barry and on one day last week 25 Fixed Penalty Notices were issued mainly for failure to wear seatbelts and driving whilst on their mobile phone. A further 22 Fixed Penalty Notices were issued to motorists on June 17th.
Acting Sergeant Bryn Glennie, based at Barry police station, said: “Operation Rock is an opportunity to pro-actively reduce the number of road crashes within the Vale of Glamorgan and to positively influence the behavior of a large number of drivers.
'We will take every opportunity to engage with the drivers to help achieve the intentions of the operation.”
“Officers will be on the roads around the Vale of Glamorgan during the coming weeks and anyone caught without a seat belt will be given a £30 Fixed Penalty Notices but more extreme cases, such as drivers failing to strap in their children, could be summonsed to court,” said acting Sergeant Glennie.
He also warned motorists about the dangers of drinking and driving. “In the summer many people have parties and barbecues especially when the sun is shining. However, as these events may take place over a number of hours they may lose track of how much they have had to drink.
“I would remind people there is no set amount of alcohol which can be consumed before legally getting behind the wheel. People who drink and drive run the risk of killing themselves, their passengers, and other innocent road users.
“If you are stopped for any offence, and are then found to be over the limit you face being disqualified from driving and having a criminal conviction which can have a massive impact on your life.
“The best advice is simple - if you drink, don’t drive.”
19/6/08
Road Safety Officers in Swansea Council have restated their intentions to implement slower 20mph limits outside all schools in the area.
The comments come after the Assembly announced plans to launch a consultation into slowing down traffic outside schools in Wales, with emphasis on introducing 20mph limits near to schools.
Jeff Green, Swansea Council's Casualty Reduction Officer, said, "In Swansea, we've installed 20mph zones and limits on roads near schools since 2003.
"The Road Safety Strategy for Wales at that time highlighted the importance of the lower limits. We took that on board quite early on and utilised funding from various sources to implement these measures."
Latest statistics show there are now around 150 streets or roads in Swansea that have a lower 20mph limit, the majority of which, are near schools. One of the most recent schools to benefit from the reduction in speed limits is Oystermouth Primary School. Other schools to benefit from the lower limits include St Thomas Community School and Dunvant Primary.
The Council also states that these lower limits are having the desired effect in helping to reduce road accidents involving children. In Swansea the average number of school children that were involved in accidents when walking to or from school between 1994 and 1998 was 53. The latest figures show this figure has dropped to 22.
Mr Green added, "We're delighted that there has been a decrease in these figures. We are committed to making the streets safer for children and people in communities."
This year a record nine schools in Swansea were successful in obtaining Safe Routes in Communities funding via the annual Transport Grant settlement from WAG. The schools have all worked with the Council's Road Safety Team to address road safety issues specific to them.
John Hague, Cabinet Member for the Environment in Swansea Council, said, "The Safe Routes in Communities scheme is a fantastic way of involving schools and communities in providing safer environments for pedestrians."
18/6/08
Denbighshire County Council is joining in the spirit of Bike Week (June 14 – 22) with a series of training activities for the county’s children.
Bike Week is an annual opportunity to promote cycling as a source of fitness and fun.
Denbighshire's Road Safety Team organises cycle training using the new National Standards www.ctsb.org.uk These replaced the old cycle proficiency, which many people will be familiar with, last September.
Over 500 young cyclists from 25 of the county's primary or junior schools have taken levels 1 and 2 training during this school year. This training continues throughout Bike Week at Clocaenog and Cyffylliog primary schools.
On Wednesday, June 18, Bryn Hedydd primary school, Rhyl, is holding a Cycle Fun Day for all the pupils, based on the national standards level 1 exercises and graded to suit each year group. This is being arranged by a parent, Barry Dunn, who is also an accredited instructor for the new training. Level 1 of the new standards is a series of off road control and manoeuvrability exercises designed to ensure that the cyclist is safe to proceed onto the level 2 training which takes place on quiet local roads. The level 3 standard trains cyclists to ride safely in the complexity of the modern road network and traffic conditions.
Cllr Eryl Williams, Lead Member for Environment and Sustainable Development, says, “It’s marvellous to see our young cyclists on their bikes wearing helmets and visibility vests and getting the real road training experience which could enable them to become regular riders as they get older.”
If you are interested in becoming an instructor, please contact Alan Hinchliffe Denbighshire's Road Safety Officer on 01824 706887.
17/6/08
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From left to right: Deputy Chief Constable Andy Edwards, Dyfed Powys Police); 200 Yards Ahead (Pembs); Centre; Tom van Hamer (Carms) Delayed Seed (Ceredigion); Phil Thompson (Chevron Pembroke Refinery) and Susan Storch, Road Safety Officer, Dyfed Powys Police.
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Young musicians from the Dyfed Powys Police force area have performed anti-drink drive songs as part of the Wales wide campaign. The Music Challenge final saw three bands perform their anti-drink drive song which was kindly sponsored by Chevron (Pembroke Refinery). The awareness raising event formed part of the All Wales summer anti drink drive campaign.
The winner of the music challenge was Tom van Hamer of Carmarthenshire with his song ‘On The Road’. He received £250 for himself and £250 and a trophy for Amman Valley School, Ammanford, who he represented.
The runners up were 200 Yards Ahead from Greenhill School, Tenby, they received £150 for the band and £150 for their school.
Third place went to Delayed Seed, from Lampeter Secondary School, who received £100 for the band.
Road Safety Officer Susan Storch said: “We would like to thank all the young people who took part in the competition and the schools they represented. All three acts performed to a high standard and the judges had a very difficult job in deciding the winners.”
“The Music Challenge started in Gwent through Capita Symonds in 2006 and they are now in their third year. Following on from their success we started running this competition through the Mid and West Wales Road Safety group last autumn and we hope to see this as an All Wales initiative in the near future.”
“This is a novel way of engaging with young people and getting across the very serious message of anti drink driving and we will continue to work very closely with all our partners as we start to plan for our second year!”
17/6/08
Pembrokeshire Road Safety officers are urging drivers not to drink and drive because the consequent cost could be too much. They say drinking and driving could lead to a court conviction; a driving ban of at least 12 months; an endorsement on a driving licence for 11 years and even a criminal record.
The Pembrokeshire Road Safety Partnership Forum has joined forces with Brains Brewery to distribute posters leaflets and beer mats spreading the anti drink/drive message.
Forty thousand beer mats will be distributed to pubs and clubs across the County.
The campaign is part of a national Anti Drink Drive Campaign, which is launched this month by Dyfed Powys Police.
Councillor Jamie Adams, Cabinet Member for Highways and Planning said the consequences of being caught drink driving would be steep.
“You may be liable to a fine of up to £5,000 and up to six months in prison,” he said.
“But nothing reflects the everyday consequences of being caught drinking and driving – having to rely on friends and family to drive you around or having to sell your car to pay a hefty fine, or just watch it rust away for months.
“And if you have to find a new job, without a licence you would be unable to drive to work or drive for work – that’s if you can find an employer willing to hire you with a criminal record.”
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Instead of drinking and driving, the Road Safety Partnership Forum urges people to consider alternatives.
“Book a taxi or agree which of your party will not drink and drive at the start of a night out,” said John Gobbi, Pembrokeshire Road Safety Education Officer.
“Use public transport if possible to get home or stay overnight at a friend’s house. Whatever you do never get into a car driven by someone else, who has been drinking,” he said.
For further information about the campaign contact: John Gobbi at County Hall, Haverfordwest. Tel: 01437 775144
16/6/08
Bike Week, a UK annual celebration of cycling runs from 14-22 June 2008.
Government-funded with support from the cycle industry, Bike Week aims to get more people cycling, more often. Any organisation or individual can become an event organiser and take advantage of the support provided during Bike Week, which includes free promotional material, inclusion on the bike week online database, and public liability insurance if required.
The Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, Jane Davidson marked the start of Bike Week 2008 by cycling into work this morning (Monday 16 June). Ms Davidson said:
I am very pleased to be helping to promote Bike Week and urge people throughout Wales to get out and cycle. I am also pleased that the Assembly is setting a good example by arranging our own events for staff during Bike Week.
She also outlined a number of Assembly Government Initiatives that are underway to encourage people throughout Wales to cycle:
- Walking and cycling Conference - In partnership with Sports Council for Wales, CCW and Sustrans Cymru, to help shape future actions in the promotion of Walking and Cycling on 25 June, now fully booked.
- Introduction of the National Standards in Cycle Training to Wales. Undertaken by CTC Charitable Trust and funded by Welsh Assembly Government, to significantly increase the number of qualified instructors to provide more children with high quality cycle training.
- Bike It Projects - Sustrans Cymru will receive funding for 2 pilot ‘Bike It’ projects that aim to get more school children cycling to school.
- Sustainable cycle tourism and accommodation: Working with Visit Wales to improve provision of accommodation information alongside the National Cycle Routes in Wales, to enable the public to search for accommodation that is close to the National cycle Routes in the same way that can be done for national Walking Trails.
- Olympics 2012 Legacy Action Plan – Officials are in touch with Sports colleagues and the Welsh Assembly Government 2012 Olympics team about promoting mountain bike venues in Wales for training purposes by teams participating in the Olympics.
Ms Davidson added:
If more people walk and cycle across Wales it will help reduce their dependence on the car, and contribute to cutting CO2 emissions which are causing climate change. We all need to reduce our carbon footprint, and cycling can help to make a real difference. With the cost of motoring on the rise, cycling is a cheap, healthy, and sustainable means of transport.
Website: Bike Week 2008.
