Countrysafe
19 Jul 2010
Police launched a pilot initiative aimed at reducing the number of collisions involving injury and/or death on rural roads across Northern Ireland, as well as tackling rural crime and anti-social behaviour.
‘Countrysafe’ was unveiled at the 43rd Annual Agricultural Show at Castlewellan Forest Park on Saturday, 17th July. The event allowed Road Education Officers to engage with the local community on personal responsibility on the roads and keeping themselves and others safe.
A 40ft events trailer provided by the local Road Policing Education Unit displayed useful material, such as posters and leaflets on road safety. Officers from both the Police Service of Northern Ireland and An Garda Síochána were on hand to provide advice and guidance on correct vehicle use on rural roads.
Other road safe initiatives present were the highly successful ‘Bikesafe’ scheme highlighting safety issues for motorcyclists and ‘Project EVO,’ a former road policing Mitsubishi Evolution VIII which has been saved from the scrap heap and modified by local motor trade companies. The former specialist pursuit vehicle has been refitted and modified to show exact legal requirements and will be used as a road policing educational medium at road safety events.
As well as road safety initiatives, rural crime prevention advice was available. Looking after plant machinery and farmland equipment properly, being wary of rogue tradesmen and bogus callers, as well as general safety guidelines were some of the areas covered by local crime prevention officers.
As well as local police and supported by Down District Policing Partnership, Down Quad Club, Young Farmers Club and Ulster Rural Riders Association were invited. An Garda Síochána attended in the form of two officers on horseback in a non-operational role throughout the day.
Inspector Davey McCausland, Road Policing Education Unit said: “In conjunction with local police and outside agencies, we hope ‘Countrysafe’ will reduce rural crime, educate the community in safer practice and eradicate anti-social behaviour.
“Vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders should wear high visibility clothing. It is the personal responsibility for all road users to act responsibly and safe.
“From crime prevention advice, to guidance of safer road use in rural areas, ‘Countrysafe’ will have a lasting and positive impact on the rural community across Northern Ireland.”
