As the festive season approaches, the St Helena Government (SHG) is calling on both residents and visitors to make road safety a priority. With more people expected on the island and an increase in potentially inexperienced drivers, SHG emphasizes that everyone has a role to play in keeping roads safe.
“Road Safety is Your Responsibility,” SHG stated in its recent message to the public.
The holiday period traditionally brings higher levels of activity across St Helena, resulting in busier roads. This heightened usage requires greater caution from all road users.
Key recommendations from SHG include ensuring vehicles are roadworthy before travel, particularly for longer journeys. Drivers are urged to check tyre tread depth and pressure, confirm all lights are functioning properly, and verify that fluid levels such as oil, coolant, and windscreen washer fluid are sufficient.
The government also highlights the dangers of using mobile phones while driving. “Using a mobile phone while driving significantly impairs your ability to focus on the road. It can take up to 30 seconds to regain your full focus after a significant distraction. This distraction slows your reaction time and can lead to inappropriate speed and poor spatial awareness. Your attention must be fully on the task of driving.”
SHG advises drivers to remain alert due to increased traffic volumes, avoid distractions, plan journeys ahead of time, allow extra travel time, and exercise caution at busy junctions or narrow sections of road. The importance of maintaining a safe following distance is also stressed, as well as showing patience and courtesy toward other drivers—especially those who may not be familiar with local roads.
Enforcement patrols will be active during the festive period. SHG warns that careless driving could result in legal action or cause serious injury or death.
“Remember: Your choice behind the wheel impacts everyone on the road. Drive safe. Drive responsibly,” SHG concluded.