Elgin crews shine spotlight on road safety

A FOCUS on road safety for drivers of all ages will take place in Elgin this weekend.

Crews from Elgin fire station are running Saturday's event in partnership with Costa Coffee's drive thru at Linkwood Road.

Statistics show a third of road crashes involve someone who is driving for work purposes, with commuters especially at risk from fatigue.

So fire teams will be on hand to provide advice and guidance on all road safety matters, highlighting the increased risk tiredness poses to those that drive to and from work.

Staff from Halfords and Moray Council's road safety unit will also be there to offer free car seat safety checks and advice on the correct method of fitting them, as well as highlighting common faults which can increase the risk of injury.

Crew Manager Douglas McAulay said: "One of the key aims of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) in Moray is to contribute to road casualty reduction in the north east.

"Working in partnership with staff from Costa and Halfords along with our colleagues from Moray Council gives us an excellent opportunity to provide professional guidance and advice to drivers in the Moray area.

"The event is designed to be friendly and informative. This direct approach of speaking to drivers in an environment that they are used to works very well.”

A fire appliance will be at the event so members of the public can see the equipment up close.

Station Manager David Scott thanked local business for their support in running the focus.

He said: "Road Casualty Reduction is a priority within Moray Local Fire and Rescue Plan and this initiative aims to provide advice to commuters as evidence reflects they are at risk of being involved in a road traffic collision

"It is very encouraging to see the positive response from within the community, it is this level of support that helps deliver the message to a larger audience."

The event runs on Saturday from 10am to noon and Costa Drive Thru manager, Lisa Smith, said: "At Costa we take the safety of our customers and staff very seriously, this event will help to educate everyone on the importance of road safety.

"My team and I are very much looking forward to hosting this event with Elgin Fire Station."

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