Warning for drivers leading up to Christmas

People should be careful about mixing driving with alcohol.

In the week before Christmas police are warning drivers to be extra vigilant on the roads.

"It's really important that people take the time to prepare themselves for the trip away after the very busy build up to Christmas," acting Southern District Road Policing manager Senior Sergeant Steve Larking said.

"If you are having trouble concentrating or feeling tired you must pull over and have a rest. There is no point in putting your life and that of other road users at risk because you are tired."

When on the road often the front passenger is in a very good position to help make decisions about what is going on, when to stop for a rest and where, or to share the driving, he said.

"There are various steps a driver can take such as stopping for a 20-minute nap or sharing the driving. Tired drivers are a danger on the road and we all need to be aware of that.

"If you're driving, plan ahead to ensure you are well-rested and have plenty of time to take breaks. We want everyone to be safe while travelling on the roads over the holiday period," Mr Larking said.

People should also be careful about mixing driving with alcohol.

"We want people to enjoy their time celebrating this holiday season with work colleagues, friends and family. We also want everyone to have options in place to ensure that they get home safely."

Host responsibility was about providing transport for guests, non-alcoholic alternatives for those who are driving and actively ensuring that people who have been drinking are not tempted to drive home, he said.

Holiday driving safety tips:

• get plenty of sleep before your journey, and try to drive at times of the day when you are normally awake;

• if possible, share the driving;

• take your time and plan for rest breaks every couple of hours;

• don't drink and drive, and don't speed - many fatigue crashes also involve these two factors; and

• use air conditioning if your vehicle has it. It will increase fuel consumption, but cool air will also keep you more alert and help avoid frustration and stress.