'Car crash' outside Salisbury fire station

It's been put out to coincide with the Christmas drink and drug driving campaign

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 9th Dec 2020

If you've noticed some smashed up cars outside Salisbury's fire station on Ashley Road, don't worry, there's nothing to worry about.

The vehicles have been put in place to spread a message about the potential consequences of driving after drinking or taking drugs.

Watch Manager Tom Brolan said:

"Colleagues at Stratton fire station in Swindon have had a similar display for the last few years and it's been very effective, so we thought it would be good to share the same message in Salisbury. Most people don't drink and drive, but we hope this serves as a reminder to everyone about alcohol levels, not only in the evening but also on the morning after.

"As firefighters, we deal with far too many horrific road traffic collisions, and we are urging people to really think about their actions over the Christmas period."

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service are backing Wiltshire Police's drink and drug driving campaign, which is being held throughout December.

They're calling on all of us to act responsibly and report those we suspect of getting behind the wheel while under the influence, as it could save lives.

Tom Brolan from DWFRS said:

"The impact of a collision not only affects those driving, but can have a lasting effect on families, whether by a death or injury to a loved one or a prison sentence for anyone who has behaved irresponsibly and broken the law. We want everyone to have a safe festive period - with so many people staying home this year, the risks of being over the limit the next day are potentially higher, so please think before jumping in the car for the school run or to pop to the shops."

Figures from fire services show there are over 200 deaths a year are caused by drink driving, accounting for around 14% of all fatal collisions.

The penalties of being caught drink or drug driving can include a minimum 12 month driving ban, a large fine, a criminal record and increased insurance premiums.

It can also have a huge impact on people's personal lives, with consequences like the possibility of losing your job and suffering relationship breakdowns.

There's more advice on road safety on the DWFRS website.

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