Police train drivers on defensive driving, responsible road use

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is continuing its road safety education campaign through a series of training sessions aimed at improving awareness, encouraging responsible driving practices and reducing traffic violations and collisions. In Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), the Traffic Department continued its community outreach efforts with a road safety lecture in Rupunau Village, South Rupununi District. The session, held on Saturday, which conducted by Sergeant Bourne and other traffic ranks from the region, saw residents received information on obtaining a driver’s licence, rules of the road, defensive driving, kerb drill, tint regulations, the Five Cs of safe driving, mobile device restrictions, road signs and markings and the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol. Residents participated in discussions and expressed appreciation for the initiative, while welcoming further road safety programmes in their communities.

Meanwhile, the Traffic Education Section of Regional Division 4 ‘B’ recently conducted a road safety training session for members of the Regional Division 4 ‘B’ Road Safety Council. The session, held on Friday, saw four council members participating in discussions focused on safe driving practices and traffic safety. Topics covered included defensive driving, careless and dangerous driving, speeding and its consequences, seat belt use, maintaining safe following distances, safe overtaking and the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Participants were also briefed on the risks associated with distracted driving, particularly mobile phone use, the importance of routine vehicle inspections and the need for courtesy and consideration among road users. The Traffic Education Section encouraged participants to share the knowledge gained with their families, workplaces, and communities as part of efforts to build greater awareness of road safety. Meanwhile, the Traffic Headquarters Education Unit conducted road safety lectures for employees of Century Tamara Logistics at Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and drivers and porters attached to Cevons Waste Management in Georgetown. The Century Tamara Logistics session was held on Wednesday last and was attended by approximately 70 employees. The lecture focused on defensive driving, traffic rules, hazard awareness, speed management, road signs and signals, and the importance of professionalism and responsibility while using the roadways. At Cevons Waste Management, approximately 55 participants took part in a session held on Thursday last at the company’s Aubrey Barker Road location.

Facilitated by Inspector Richard Trotz, Corporal Charran and Corporal Gopaul, in collaboration with the company’s Health and Safety Officer, Vatoya Soodat and Darnell Johnson, the session addressed defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance, risk identification, speeding, and the legal consequences of driving under the influence.
The presenters also highlighted the importance of proper attire for drivers, the correct use of roundabouts, and the role of porters in assisting drivers by monitoring blind spots and helping to ensure safety during reversing and manoeuvring.
The GPF said the continued outreach is part of its efforts to strengthen road safety awareness, encourage responsible road use and promote safer driving practices nationwide.