Noosa police will be out in force as the Christmas Road Safety Campaign moves into top gear across the shire in the lead-up to the festive season.
Noosa Heads officer in charge Senior Sergeant Steve McReight urged residents and visitors to the shire to stay safe, be patient and show respect to everyone in the community in the Christmas and new year period.
Sen Sgt McReight said officers will be conducting random alcohol and drug testing for drivers, and undertaking both covert and overt speed enforcement strategies in high-risk zones while maintaining a highly visible presence throughout the campaign.
Sunshine Coast District Officer Superintendent Darryl Johnson said with the holiday period approaching, local police will be rolling out a series of targeted operations.
“We live in one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations and that means a large influx of visitors from right across the country will descend on the coast to celebrate Christmas and new year here,” Superintendent Johnson said.
“We want to ensure everyone has a happy and safe festive season and not one tarnished by road trauma.
“Over the Christmas and school holiday period, police will be out in force targeting drivers (who are) putting themselves and other road users at risk by breaking the law.”
Last year 33 people died and more than 2000 people were injured on Queensland roads during the 2015 Christmas Road Safety Campaign.
Police are urging everyone to consider the Fatal Five contributing factors to road fatalities when getting behind the wheel of their vehicle.
These include speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, driving while tired and being distracted when driving, such as using a mobile phone.
The 2016-17 Christmas Road Safety Campaign will run until 27 January and incorporates the lead-up to Christmas, over the new year break, the Australia Day weekend and back to school week.
