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As we get closer to Easter weekend, it’s important to remember that this is one of the busiest travel periods this year. Most people head out for road trips, visit loved ones, and use public transport to attend festivals or night vigils, making safety a top priority. Read to discover everything you must remember to ensure safe and stress-free road safety during the Easter holidays.

Road Safety for Easter Travel

If you’re hitting the road this Easter, take extra precautions to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. The holidays are known for more road accidents and fatalities, which are commonly caused by reckless driving, fatigue, and alcohol consumption. To minimise the risk, consider the following:

Plan Your Trip in Advance

• Before heading to your destination, check your route and plan for possible roadworks and peak traffic times.
• Use real-time navigation apps to avoid congestion and find alternative routes.
• Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy by checking tyres, brakes, lights, and fluid levels.

Stick to the Rules of the Road

When you’re on the road, you must follow the rules, observe your speed limits, and comply with road signs to prevent accidents. This is an important consideration to improve the safety of other motorists, passengers, and pedestrians. Reckless driving, such as overtaking when it’s dangerous to do so and speeding, increases the risk of losing control, worsening the severity of head-on collisions.

Avoid Fatigue and Stay Alert

Driving when you feel fatigued can cause accidents. If you’re driving long distances, you should take consistent breaks to refresh and stretch. You should also get a good night’s sleep before you embark on your trip or get another designated driver to switch with if it gets too tiring for you.

Minimise Distractions

Using your phone or eating while you’re meant to have your focus on the road can increase distractions. If necessary, consider using the hands-free option when answering your phone. You should always stay aware of your surroundings to prevent distractions which can cause fatalities.

Pack an Emergency Kit

You never know what kind of emergencies lie ahead of your journey. Staying prepared and packing a first-aid kit and car necessities like jumper cables, emergency triangles, and spare tyres can be handy when you need them most. You can also save emergency contacts, ensure you can access your FREE-to-use iER App, and carry other supplies like water and non-perishable foods in case of an emergency.

Public Transport and Airport Safety

Relying on public transport can be chaotic around this time of year. Learning how to navigate these spaces safely can secure your belongings and improve your safety. Here’s what you can do:

• Keep your bags zipped up and close to your body in crowded areas.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables hidden.
• Be cautious when using ATMs; cover your PIN and avoid secluded areas.
• Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Double-check your travel documents, tickets, and flight details in advance.
• Be wary of strangers helping you with anything since scams are more common in crowded places.
• If using taxis or ride-hailing services, confirm driver details and share trip updates with someone you trust.
• Sit in well-lit areas and stay alert to your surroundings when using buses or trains.

Home Safety While You’re Away

The excitement of going away for a few days can make you forget about the risks of leaving your home unprotected. You should take precautions before you leave. A home safety checklist can give you peace of mind while keeping your property and belongings safe so you can focus on having fun.

Here’s what you can do:

• Check that all doors, windows, and gates are securely locked.
• Store valuables in a safe place and avoid leaving them in plain sight.
• Use timer switches to turn lights on and off at intervals.
• Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to check in and monitor your property.
• Avoid advertising your trip on social media until you return.

Easter should be a time of joy, relaxation, and connection with loved ones, not stress and danger. Planning, staying aware, and following these safety tips can ensure a secure and hassle-free holiday. Whether travelling by road, air, or public transport, your FREE-to-use iER App is your safety companion 24/7 to provide immediate access to medical and non-medical emergency responders nationwide.