As the Easter long weekend approaches, a wave of excitement is sweeping across South Africa. Families are preparing for short breaks, packing their cars, and hitting the open road for some much-needed quality time away from home.

However, amidst the anticipation of adventure lies a crucial need for safety and preparedness, both on the road and at home. Recognising this, Castrol has collaborated with Paige Lindenberg, general manager for Shelby SA and an award-winning racing driver, to share essential road safety tips for your Easter journeys.

"Safety on the road isn’t about luck; it's about preparation," said Paige. Drawing from her experiences on the racetrack, she underscores the significance of addressing even minor vehicle issues before embarking on a trip.

"Looking after your family's safety should start long before your engine does." To help ensure your journey is smooth and secure, Paige offers five vital checks that every driver should perform before setting off:

Get a grip on your tyres: Did you know that the contact area between your tyres and the road is roughly the size of your handprint? Paige urges drivers to examine their tyres for tread depth and any signs of damage. "Worn tyres can increase stopping distances dramatically - by up to 10 metres at 60 km/h and as much as 35 metres at 100 km/h," she warns. Ensuring proper tyre health could be the difference between safety and tragedy.
Spare a thought for your fifth wheel: Don’t neglect your spare tyre. "Ensure it's in good condition, correctly inflated, and that you have the necessary tools for a quick change," Paige advises. A flat tyre should be a mere inconvenience, rather than a crisis.
Take charge of your battery: Battery failures can derail even the best-planned road trips. Paige suggests getting your battery tested professionally before your journey to avoid unexpected breakdowns. "A quick battery check is an investment in carefree holiday memories," she adds.
A quick lube check is all you need: Don't overlook essential fluids. "Check your oil, water, and coolant levels. Ideally, schedule a full vehicle service ahead of your trip," Paige recommends. Additionally, carrying spare fluids can be a lifesaver.
Check out the big screen: A compromised windscreen poses a significant safety risk. "Minor chips can develop into dangerous cracks," warns Paige. Repairing these issues early could keep you and your passengers secure.

Marius Kemp, Head of Personal Lines Underwriting at Santam, provides guidance to ease the worries of those preparing to leave their homes behind. With road traffic fatalities rising by nearly 33%, he stresses the importance of safety precautions both on the roads and at home.

Test your house alarm: Ensure your alarm functions properly to maintain insurance coverage.
Communicate with your security service: Inform them of your absence and provide the contact details of a trustworthy neighbour.
Regular checks: Have someone regularly check on your property and ensure all windows and doors are securely locked.
Minimise risks: Turn off the water supply to prevent damage from pipe bursting and consider switching off electrical appliances to mitigate fire risks.

“Preparation brings peace of mind,” concludes Paige. By making these critical vehicle checks and home safety preparations, you’re maximising the likelihood that your holiday adventures will remain joyful and worry-free.

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Prepare your vehicle and home for a safe Easter getaway