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Whether you are on the road this Easter weekend, or looking forward to a break-away in the near future, it is advised to go prepared.
Peak traffic days for Easter weekend will be on Friday, 29 March, and Monday, 1 April.
“These are often high-incident days on the road due to traffic congestion. Plan your route in advance and take note of any alternate routes you could utilise in case of any unexpected delays or road closures,” says Sarah Kekana, Netcare 911 spokesperson.
Make use of these tips from Netcare 911 to prepare for a journey:
Planning your travel
- Make sure your car is ready and roadworthy. A basic vehicle check at home could save you time and money once you hit the road:
- check the lights are working;
- make sure the brakes are functioning well;
- check the tread and condition of your tyres, and make sure your spare tyre is inflated. Check that the tools needed to change a tyre are on hand;
- pack a basic toolbox;
- top up water, oil, and windscreen washer liquid;
- make sure your driver’s licence and car licence are up to date; and
- clean your car windows and rear-view mirrors.
First aid kit
It is essential to have a well-stocked first aid kit in your car in case emergencies arise. The following items are recommended:
- cotton wool balls;
- a digital thermometer;
- medical gloves;
- eye protection;
- burn shield dressing or gel;
- variety of bandage sizes;
- antiseptic wipes and liquid;
- a space blanket;
- safety pins;
- scissors and tweezers;
- plasters and medical tape; and
- paracetamol tablets and syrup.
While driving
“Be patient. The roads will be busy, and it is important to have consideration for other road users. Keep your cool because when tempers flare on the roads, the outcome can be fatal,” says Kekana.
- The driver must ensure that everyone is buckled up safely in their seats. Babies and children should be strapped into reliable, age-appropriate car seats.
- Keep those travelling with you safe by ensuring you never engage in distracted driving. Ask a passenger to monitor traffic reports and alerts on X (formerly Twitter) and road travel apps for you. Listen to the local regional radio service to tune into their traffic reports.
- Speed really does kill. Stick to the speed limit.
- Do not drive if you have consumed alcohol or taken drugs.
- There is no harm in listening to a podcast or your favourite music to keep the boredom at bay while the kilometres roll by. Just make sure to get a passenger to find and play them for you.
- Keep a safe travelling distance of at least three seconds, and double this in wet weather.
- You should stop every two hours in well-lit, safe areas away from the roadside to stretch your legs and rest.
- Stay well-hydrated and keep the inside temperature of your car cool while driving.
At your destination
- Only swim in designated areas.
- If you are near water, watch your children at all times. They should not wander off alone without an adult escort.
- Limit your exposure to the sun to before 11:00 and after 15:00, and use sunblock with a high sun protection factor. Reapply it often, even in overcast weather, and wear a hat.
- Be careful of what and where you eat.
- Never hike alone.
- Check the weather forecast before engaging in outdoor activities. Extreme heat or forecasted thunderstorms could mean you need to replan your day.
- Do not assume a place is safe simply because it seems like a friendly holiday destination. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone.
Help is on hand
“If the unthinkable happens and you need help in a medical emergency, contact Netcare 911 on 082-911 or download the Netcare App in advance to easily reach us,” says Kekana.
The Netcare App includes emergency call and geolocation functions to assist in minimising response times by precisely locating callers – even in remote areas or if the caller does not know the address.
The Netcare App also includes a Netcare 911 60-second call back option and provides tracking of the ambulance and response vehicles’ estimated arrival time.
