As Commanders you should be well versed and knowledgeable on the effects of drink driving, having sat on multiple briefs and also maybe seeing it firsthand. We have a lot of young and influential soldiers that may not be fully aware of the dangers associated with drink driving or the consequences that it can have. It is up to us to educate, guide and prevent our SP and their families from taking control of a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol. The following are easy to accomplish and disseminate to your SP and the wider community.
1. Drink-driving penalties - GOV.UK This is UK law on Drink driving, in addition to the penalties the implications of drink driving can be career ending for SP and will negatively affect getting a job on Civi Street.
2. After work drinks survival guide | Drinkaware - this guide is especially prevalent to soldiers and more so Seniors and Officers. It is too easy and accessible to go into the Mess have a few drinks and then drive home. This DEFINITELY should not happen, and mess members should know better.
3. Drink a Little. Risk a Lot. – THINK! - This article highlights the importance of not drink driving - Drink a little. Risk a lot. - An accompanying video.
4. Pint Block – THINK! & Activate Pint Block! – THINK! - A Campaign to get people to stop there friends from drink driving, the campaign has various videos that are designed to assist in persuading your friend not to drink drive.
a. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Thrash Met-Ale
b. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Wrap Trap
c. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Magma
d. THINK! Don’t Drink Drive 50th Anniversary Advert
5. BFB Drink and Drug Driving Powerpoint - Further advice and possibly delivery on this can be gained by contacting the MT Dept.
b. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Wrap Trap
c. THINK! Activate Pint Block - Magma
d. THINK! Don’t Drink Drive 50th Anniversary Advert
5. BFB Drink and Drug Driving Powerpoint - Further advice and possibly delivery on this can be gained by contacting the MT Dept.
Off Duty Safety
Off Duty Safety encompasses everything that has been pushed out especially last month's information. Driving private vehicles, cycling and even being a pedestrian (especially in Brunei) are dangerous activities that can become life changing as victim or as a perpetrator. I implore you to republish the information that has already been released especially the following points.
1. Seat Belts and child restraints - No matter how long the journey all occupants of all vehicles MUST wear a seatbelt.
a. THINK! Julie Video - GRAPHIC - Consequences of passengers not wearing seatbelts in the car.
b. Child Restraint Video - Video showing the importance of child restraints and the results of not using them properly.
c. THINK! Click Campaign - Campaign to encourage people to wear seat belts.
2. Mobile Phones - Do not use your mobile phone while driving it is illegal and life threatening.
a. THINK! Life Without Zoe -Video - The consequences of using your mobile when driving.
b. THINK! Hands on the Wheel, Hands off your Phone campaign - Article and handouts to educate.
3. Speeding - Speed Kills
a. Speed - MtswWeb - MTSR guidance on speeding
b. Think! Road Safety - Speeders Come Out Of Nowhere (2020) - 30 sec
c. Live With It- TV ad for speeding
4. Driving Conditions - This is very important here in Brunei but prevalent in the UK as well. Brunei has very heavy rain that comes and goes and the UK has an ever-changing weather cycle that effect road surface conditions and glare. Driving in the rain requires extra caution due to reduced visibility and increased stopping distances. Key actions include slowing down, increasing following distance, using headlights, and avoiding sudden movements.
a. Advice for driving in heavy rain and floods | RAC Drive
5. Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain:
a. Reduce Speed - Decrease your speed to maintain better control and reduce the risk of hydroplaning, where tires lose contact with the road surface.
b. Increase Following Distance - Allow for extra space between your vehicle and the one in front, as braking distances are significantly longer in wet conditions.
c. Use Headlights - Turn on your headlights, even during the day, to enhance visibility for other drivers.
d. Avoid Sudden Movements - Steer, brake, and accelerate gently to prevent skidding and loss of control.
e. Check Wipers - Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if necessary.
f. Be Aware of Standing Water - Avoid driving through deep puddles or standing water, as it can cause hydroplaning or damage your vehicle.
g. Consider Your Route - Plan your route carefully and be aware of potential hazards like flooded roads.
h. Don't Use Cruise Control - Avoid using cruise control in wet conditions as it can hinder your ability to react to changing road conditions.
i. Keep Windows Clear - Use your car's defroster or air conditioning to prevent fogging on the inside of the windshield.
6. Vehicle Maintenance - Look after your vehicle, make regular checks and get things seen by professionals early to reduce costly repair bills. The LAD and Garrison Workshop are always happy to help, if you are not sure please come and see us on Tuker Lines and we will have a look.
a. BRUNEI HIVE: Private Vehicle Checks - A video has been created by 2 of my VMs guiding people on recommended checks to their own vehicles. It has been published on the HIVE. Along with some other useful information.
b. Minimum Checks before a long journey and weekly,
i. Petrol - Has it got the right fuel and enough for your journey
ii. Oils - Are all the oil levels correct? Engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission oil?
iii. Water - Is the coolant level correct? REMEMBER DO NOT REMOVE THE COOLANT CAP WHILE ENGINE IS HOT! Have you got enough washer fluid?
iv. Electrics - Do the lights work properly? Are the switches and buttons working? Are the wipers and washers working?
v. Rubber - Are your tyres in a good condition? Have you got sufficient tread (Legal Minimum 1.6mm)? Are there any bulges, splits or objects anywhere in the tyre? Are they at the right pressure? All this includes the spare!
Drive Safe!
