❗We're urging motorists to take extra care on local roads following a recent spike in collisions involving deer

Deer are particularly active at dawn and dusk and can enter the road suddenly, especially near wooded and rural routes. Even at lower speeds, a collision can be extremely dangerous.

Please help keep yourself and others safe:

✅ Slow down, especially in rural or tree‑lined areas

✅ Be extra alert at dawn and dusk

✅ Use full beam headlights where safe to do so

✅ If you see one deer, expect more nearby

✅ If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly and stay in control – do not swerve

If you hit a deer:

🔹 Stop safely when it is safe to do so

🔹 Switch on your hazard lights to warn other road users

🔹 Do not approach the animal – injured deer can be unpredictable

🔹 Call 999 if the deer is injured or remains in the road and poses a danger

🔹 Stay in a safe location until help arrives if the road is affected

Reporting these incidents allows officers and partner agencies to deal with hazards quickly and prevent further collisions.

By slowing down and staying alert, you could help prevent a serious incident.