Cleveland Fire Brigade are encouraging motorists to take advantage of the upcoming free drive-thru vehicle safety checks this weekend to keep everyone safe on the roads.
Due to the resounding success of our last event we are working with the Cleveland Road Safety Partnership to host another drive-thru event. The drop-in session will take place at Redcar Community Fire Station on Saturday 21st January (10am to 3pm) which will include checks on tyres, lights, wipers, fluid levels and washer bottles – and you can also pick-up some freebies and screen wash. You do not need to book an appointment.
A total of 52 drivers turned up at Coulby Newham Fire Station in December last year to get their vehicles checked. Over half of these had issues that required our attention including tyre pressure and coolant top-ups. If the issues were left, then they could have put the motorist at risk.
Andrew Bright, Learn and Live Coordinator, said: “It is important that your vehicle is fully prepared for all temperatures and conditions. These checks are a quick and easy way to make sure your vehicle is road ready, topped up and ready to go. A broken-down vehicle on the road can put not only you but others at risk. We are urging drivers – prepare it, check it, don’t wreck it.
Along with checking vehicles we also ask drivers to listen out for weather forecasts and travel updates before setting off. If the conditions are a bit tricky then consider delaying non-essential journeys until the roads are clearer or have been treated. If you do have to travel, make sure you have cleared windscreens and mirrors and give yourself extra time, keep your distance and keep your speed down.
Don’t forget to keep a kit on board. This should include an ice-scraper, de-icer, warm clothes, and boots. Sunglasses can also be very handy as low sun can block out visibility.”
The Brigade is a member of the Cleveland Road Safety Partnership and has teamed up with Kwik-Fit and Middlesbrough College to carry out the checks.
