DYFED-POWYS POLICE has revealed the biggest dangers faced by drivers, and the three top tips to stay safe on the roads this winter.

The Roads Policing Unit features in the latest in a series of short Behind the Scenes videos produced as part of the force’s Operation Safe and Nice to All (Op SANTA) advent calendar, which is being opened each day on social media.

PCs Leah Evans and Alex Jones have reminded drivers about the Fatal Five – the main causes of serious and fatal road traffic collisions dealt with by the force – and offered advice to drivers on how to stay safe.

PC Alex Jones said: “My primary role within the Roads Policing Unit is dealing with serious and fatal road traffic collisions.

“When we are not dealing with incidents we deal with the causes of them, and we group those up – we call the main causes the Fatal Five.”

The Fatal Five are:

1. Speeding
2. Using a mobile phone while driving
3. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
4. Not wearing a seatbelt
5. Driving in a dangerous or antisocial manner

Tips to stay safe this winter:

If your vehicle breaks down and causes an obstruction, call 101

PC Leah Evans said: “This year we are finding that we have a lot more breakdowns on the roads, especially on busy shopping routes. If you do break down and feel you are causing any sort of obstruction, give us a call. It is not a problem, we will come out and assist you, providing protection for you and your vehicle until the breakdown service comes out to rescue you.”

Police officers can check your car to ensure it is roadworthy

“If you’re not sure if your vehicle is roadworthy at this time of year, feel free to stop and speak to any police officer, or pop into your local police station for advice,” PC Evans said.

Do not check your mobile phone while stationary

“At this time of year we are finding that because of the queues of traffic with people shopping, people are very tempted to pick up their mobile phones while in the queues,” PC Evans said. “A lot of people don’t realise that is an offence, but they are still in charge of their vehicle, their engine is still running, and the vehicle is creeping along slowly so it’s very dangerous to have your attention on your mobile phone and not on the road.”

Throughout December Dyfed-Powys Police is offering advice on how to enjoy Christmas safely. For a daily dose of crime prevention advice, a behind the scenes look at policing during Christmas and a bit of festive fun.