Police warning for Pilbara drivers and residents leaving town for Christmas and New Years

With the festive season fast approaching, Pilbara police have warned motorists they will show a no-tolerance approach this Christmas and New Year.

Double demerits will kick in at 12.01am on December 24 until 11.59pm on January 9 with police targeting drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving as well as mobile phone usage and failing to wear a seatbelt.

Pilbara District co-ordinator Sergeant Ian Morris said police would be out in force during the holidays.

“Pilbara Traffic, along with all police in Western Australia, will be showing a no-tolerance approach,” he said.

“If you’re caught speeding you have no-one to blame but yourself if your Christmas is spoiled because you end up paying a large fine.

“We’ll be stopping anyone and everyone as we normally do but it’s more to say good day, see how things are going and it’s an opportunity for motorists to tell us if there are any concerns.”

Karratha police officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Danial Strachan reminded the community to lock up this Christmas.

“Lock up your house, secure your keys from your car and please don’t leave them in there otherwise you might wake up in the morning and your pride and joy is gone,” he said.

“If people can look after their neighbour’s houses if they know they’re going away and if they see anything suspicious, please contact us and we’ll get around there as quick as we can.

“We want everyone to be safe and sound and have a fantastic Christmas.”