Take care during festive season

Editorial

WHETHER we are in the cities, towns or villages as long as you are near a road and use it frequently, you will have no doubt witnessed firsthand or seen the destruction, carnage and despair traffic accidents and car crashes have cost.
Car wrecks are becoming a common sight in busy metropolitan areas such as Port Moresby and Lae and on the main highways and arterial roads that link our towns and districts.
And with almost a week of public holidays just few days away, this maybe the right time to make a statement on the dangers of drunk and careless driving.
If authorities are concerned about the increase in traffic accidents relating to alcohol, then it’s time for zero tolerance on drink driving and for lawbreakers
Not all drivers today have the savvy of simple traffic rules which makes one wonder how on earth were they given a driving licence.
These drivers are dangerous and during the festive season they are bound to cause accidents when the excitement of a few drinks or in the company of family and friends.
Throughout the holidays, between family gatherings, Christmas parties, office parties and general celebration, temptation comes in many varieties from mixed drinks, wine and champagne, to drugs being available in some cases.
Soon, you find yourself drinking one, then two, three, and between four and five can find yourself in some trouble.
Drinking alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits is an enjoyable pastime that helps people to relax or unwind.
A drink to relax after a hard day, a glass over dinner and a few on a night out.
But when it comes to alcohol, how many of us really know how much is too much?
We all know that drunkenness and alcohol abuse is not only a public nuisance but also the basis for bigger problems in PNG such as violence in families or in the community.
And with party season here, so should be our attentive instinct to the many warnings associated with it.
To spice up decorations and celebrations, we now have Christmas lights and fireworks that are now accessible to almost anyone unlike in the past.
And there are also warnings about them as they capable of starting fires.
Whether hung on the house or wrapped around the tree, these lights bring a warm and cozy feeling into any home.
But do not be fooled by the colouful lights.
You should confirm that the lights you are buying or have purchased are certified by PNG Power.
PNG Fire Services have over the years warned those using the crackers to be mindful of the surroundings and ensure that the area has no flammable substances which can catch fire easily.
And we will add the lanterns to the list also. A sky lantern may land when the flame is still alight, making it a fire hazard
Firecrackers are deemed to be illegal items in PNG and those in possession can be charged under the Dangerous Goods Act.
Don’t let a preventable accident take the enjoyment out of your holidays.
It pays to be attentive to warnings.