Speeding on the Banfield Road

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Road Safety, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

I just wanted to give you an update on Speeding issues on the Barnfield Road, which I know has been an ongoing problem for many years. Myself and Constable Dillon were out last week carrying out speed checks and we spoke to some local residents who were voicing their concerns. We did not detect any vehicles speeding at this time, but I am fully aware that us standing there in our high vis coats allows vehicles to then alert others on up the road. We do unfortunately(or fortunately) need to wear the coats for health and safety reasons as we are deploying onto the road and can only deploy for a short time before eveyone on that stretch of road is aware of our presence.

We are currently a small team of officers and do get sent to alot of calls for service as they come in but will make efforts to stop in this area when free to continue to tackle this issues.

I have asked officers in our local policing teams to pay attention to this area when free.

Be safe and alert when driving

It is important to stay safe and alert while on the road - you want to avoid all of the emergencies you just planned for. 

• Do not stop if someone tries to flag you down.  
• Never pick up hitchhikers - only give lifts to people you know well.
• Keep your mobile out of sight and do not use it while driving.
• Be aware and cautious of tailgaters or aggressive drivers
• If you are forced to stop, keep your engine running and make sure you have enough room to drive away.
• If a driver gets out and approaches you, flash your lights and sound your horn. If you have an alarm, set it off.
• Keep doors locked and handbags and valuables out of view.
• If you need air, only wind your window down a little so nobody can reach in while you are stopped in traffic.

Where is the safest place to park my vehicle?

There are lots of ways to keep yourself safe when parking your vehicle.

• Look for a secured car park. Choose a car park that is supervised and has restricted entry and exit points along with CCTV cameras.
• Remember if you are parking in daylight things will look different at night. If you are leaving your vehicle on a main road, to ensure your safety when you return, always park in a busy, well-lit area. 
• Always have your keys ready when you are coming back to your car.
• Take a look inside before you get in and make sure there is no-one there.

What should I do if my vehicle breaks down?

It can be a frightening experience if your car breaks down on the motorway or at night. Try to stay calm and remember these tips.

• Call for help on an emergency phone or mobile.
• If you are alone, tell the emergency services this.
• Return to the car but stay on the verge or bank.
• Lock all doors except the passenger door nearest to you.
• If someone pulls up, get into the car, lock the doors and speak through a slightly open window.
• If you are lost then it is safer to make your way to the nearest busy area and work out where you are going from there.
• Do not accept help from strangers.
• Remember that you should only stop on the hard shoulder in an emergency.

If you need to report a crime to us or if you have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.psni.police.uk/ or call the non-emergency number 101. 

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