With arguably the busiest day on the social calendar upon us police will be out in force across Queensland helping to keep our roads safe and ensuring those seeing in the new year do so safely.
Traditionally large crowds congregate in entertainment hubs and vantage points in towns and cities throughout the state or celebrate at home with family and friends.
New Year’s Eve is a great night and a wonderful time to celebrate and catch-up with the majority of Queenslanders doing the right thing, however poor decisions can have dire consequences with police urging the public to plan their night to make sure one moment, one split second doesn’t end up with lifelong implications.
Large policing operations will be conducted across Queensland targeting anti-social and unruly behaviour with a zero-tolerance approach to violence.
Police will also be out in force across our road and transport networks where motorists can expect officers to be ‘anywhere, anytime’.
The first eight days of phase two of Operation Romeo Sleigh (December 23 to 30) of the Christmas Road Safety Campaign saw police targeting the ‘fatal five’ causes of fatal and injury traffic crashes with officers conducting more than 43,000 random breath tests and 1,000 roadside drug tests across Queensland with 255 drivers over the legal alcohol limit and 252 returning positive roadside drug tests.
Police have also detected nearly 23,000 speeding motorists, 156 people not wearing seatbelts and 92 people using their mobile phone as well as officers issuing more than 2,800 traffic infringement notices for other driving offences.
Sadly, during this same period one person has lost their life on our roads and 185 people injured in 148 injury traffic crashes.
Remember you can still be over the limit the day after if you’ve had a big night – so if in doubt, stay off the roads and travel home with a designated driver or use public transport.
Some general New Year’s Eve safety tips:
- Plan ahead as to how many alcoholic drinks you will have and stick to the plan by monitoring your drinking;
- Do not leave drinks unattended and only accept drinks from people you trust;
- Use public transport or taxis where possible and be patient with other commuters waiting for these services;
- Walk away – far better to avoid a confrontation than find yourself in the middle of a violent altercation. Remember ‘One Punch Can Kill’;
- Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. If you feel threatened or find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, leave immediately and go to a place where you feel safe;
- Trust your instincts and recognise warning signs;
- Develop a network of people who will assist you in an emergency and let them know where you are going and when you are likely to return;
- Look after your friends;
- Consider the necessity of the items you are carrying in your handbag or wallet and try to keep valuables to a minimum.
