Police Report

RANDOM BREATH TESTING

RBT’s are continuing on the Island, with a number of drivers constantly being detected and as a result of people still doing it, then it proves that we need to be out there doing tests. NI Police use a range of methodologies in relation to RBT operations. This might be a ‘deterrent’ approach, where we do testing that is sustained and consistent with the capacity to change driver behaviour, the outcome of which is to elevate the perceived risk of detection/apprehension for impaired driving.

There also might be a ‘enforcement’ approach, meaning we undertake the testing during key times and at key locations which affords us the ability to identify impaired drivers e.g. testing on roads and in places in proximity to licenced premises or public or private events where the consumption of alcohol combined with driving is assessed as being likely.

But this also might be a ‘targeted’ approach, where we test based on evidence from exhibited driving behaviour or by focusing on a very specific area/target. E.g. a problematic licenced premises, or a road where intelligence suggests drivers think is a safe route from one location to another, or (and we make no apologies about it) targeting specific places, specific vehicles or specific people. So a good saying for the community is “anytime anywhere”. Court here is very full at the moment and at the next Court sessions, it is probably a couple of very full days worth of sitting dealing with a huge list of matters. Jail sentences are being sought for some people who continue their selfish and negligent driving behaviour.

HELMETS

We have received reports of a number of people not wearing helmets on motorcycles and bicycles. As a reminder, it is compulsory for all people to wear prescribed helmets on both motorcycles and bicycles. When the law says a “prescribed helmet” means a helmet that complies with the Australian and New Zealand standards for protective helmets and it must have a sticker on the outside or sewn-in label inside the helmet saying it complies. Otherwise, you cannot wear it. You must also hand over your helmet to Police when directed to do so for an inspection. I don’t know why you wouldn’t wear one, it’s a very simple safety measure that people need to do to look after themselves. An excuse we hear often is the “it won’t happen to me” attitude and that people “trust themselves to not fall off”, but it’s not a matter of trusting yourself, it’s trusting other people, which you can’t do unfortunately. In saying that, there was previously legislative changes so if you got your helmet prior to the rules changing to the Australian/New Zealand standard and they met the previous rules, that is ok too.

In saying that, some people are wearing helmets and we appreciate that. However, the riding being displayed by some scooters and electric skateboards is atrocious. Keep in mind these devices are regulated as well and if we need to intervene to be able to re-educate the users, we will. This includes making sure everyone has appropriate lighting and reflectors on bikes too, because they are very difficult to see on the roads at night when you have no lights or reflectors on.

LIQUOR LICENCES

It’s coming up to that time of year when liquor licences will be up for renewal. Police will be completing renewal inspections soon to provide reports to NIRC. So a reminder to all licensees to ensure your business is compliant with the Liquor Act and associated Regulations, ensuring all signage is appropriate, the business is clean and tidy, alcohol is able to be secured and all staff have their national accredited Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) qualification.

SCHOOL ZONE

And another reminder that we are well into the school term so the 30kmh speed limit applies around the school and Banyan Park areas. Please slow down to 30 or under, respect the kids right to be safe and if we are all alert today, we’ll be alive tomorrow.