Wednesday, Jul 05, 2017
Dubai: The Ministry of Interior on Wednesday launched a traffic campaign called ‘Summer without Accidents’ across the country to raise awareness among motorists that can lead to a drop in accidents.
The campaign was launched under the supervision of the Federal Traffic Council (FTC) in the light of last summer’s experience wherein 167 people died across the UAE during the summer months of July, August and September.
“It’s the period of summer holidays and many people go on long trips in their cars. [We urge them] to follow traffic instructions for their safety,” Major-General Mohammad Saif Al Zafein, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police for Operational Affairs and director of FTC, said at a press conference in Dubai on Wednesday.
Major-General Al Zafein said the campaign aims to reach zero deaths on the roads this summer or at least lead to fewer deaths and accidents.
Statistics reveal that 464 people were killed on the roads in the UAE during the summer months between 2014 and 2016.
The official urged motorists to conduct all checks for the roadworthiness of their vehicles including tyre checks before going on trips outside the country.
“The road heat can reach 90 degree Celsius in summer and this calls for good quality tyres [that can withstand this heat]. We will deploy patrols to stop vehicles randomly on the roads to check the tyres’ expiry dates as tyres are a key element to safe driving,” Maj-Gen Al Zafein said.
He urged motorists to stay focused while driving and not be distracted by mobile phones or other devices. “People can enjoy their holidays with their families but they need to ensure the safety of their car first.”
Lieutenant-Colonel Ali Saeed Al Shehi of the Ministry of Interior said they will distribute flyers to motorists, especially at border points in Ghuwaifat and Hatta, informing them of specific places where they can get their tyres checked.
“Avoid speeding and tailgating, as these are major causes of fatal accidents,” Lt-Colonel Al Shehi urged motorists.
As part of the ‘Summer without Accidents’ campaign, brochures will be made available in malls and petrol stations, in addition to awareness lectures at various government departments.
Tips for summer holiday trips
Choose appropriate times to travel — mornings are better than driving at night.
Be on the lookout for animals wandering on to roads, especially camels.
Some Gulf countries do not allow window tinting of more than 30 per cent, so be aware of that.
Check the condition of the tyres and that the paperwork is in order.
Be sure to have a map for the petrol stations and restaurants on the route you are taking.
by Ali Al Shouk Staff Reporter
Gulf News 2017. All rights reserved.
