Specials lead the way with Fatal Five traffic operation in Torbay

Volunteers led a South Devon Special Constabulary traffic day on Friday 3rd July with the aim of educating drivers and saving lives.

Officers were out in Paignton, Torquay and Brixham to speak to motorists about the dangers of the Fatal Five offences which lead to death or serious injury on the roads. The Fatal Five are:

One driver was spoken to in relation to two worn tyres, two drivers were reported for not wearing a seatbelt, four for not having an MOT, three for no vehicle tax and one for using a mobile phone behind the wheel.

Fifteen drivers also received words of advice from the Specials in relation to their driving or vehicle defects.    

Temporary Special Inspector Adam Carter said: “This operation provided Special Constables with the opportunity to enhance their operational experience in traffic enforcement, focusing on proactive roads policing activity across Paignton, Brixham, and Torquay. The aim was to support casualty reduction and target key offences, including the Fatal Five. We also had support from colleagues on the Exeter Roads Policing Team.”

Inspector Carter added: “The team played their part in wider operational issues outside of this operation which included attending serious incidents, including a fatal road traffic collision in South Devon.

“Additionally, two officers stayed on after the traffic operation had finished and, during their long shift, provided lifesaving CPR after being flagged down by a member of the public in Paignton.”

Special officers are unpaid volunteers who have the same powers as regular police officers, including the power of arrest. They wear the same uniform and carry the same kit including handcuffs, baton and radio.

A total of 27 Special Constabulary officers currently volunteer in the South Devon area and Forcewide across Devon and Cornwall there are 156 Specials.

In May and June this year South Devon Specials volunteered a total of 2,158 duty hours.

If you are interested in joining Devon & Cornwall Police as a Special Constable or other volunteer opportunities please visit the website for more information Special Constabulary - Working in Partnership

For more information about the Fatal Five offences or to report driving offences you have witnessed via Operation Snap (and to submit dashcam footage) please visit the Devon & Cornwall Police website Operation Snap - Devon and Cornwall Road Safety Team (Devon & Cornwall Police)