News

Stay safe with double demerits in force

NSW Police are urging the community to have a plan and stay ‘Snow Safe’ as the 2022 ski season commences this long weekend.

A state-wide traffic operation throughout the Queen’s Birthday long weekend has already begun and ends at midnight on Monday, with double demerits in force, while the official NSW snow season begins tomorrow (Saturday, June 11), with ski resorts expecting large crowds due to early heavy snowfalls.
Additional police will be deployed to the Snowy Mountains region from across the state as part of the high-visibility police operation. Visitors can expect to see officers from General Duties, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Southern Region Enforcement Squad, licensing police and other specialist officers – including trained Alpine Operators – throughout the season.
Southern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter Cotter APM, said police will be out and about throughout the season targeting road safety, anti-social behaviour and personal safety.
“Our priority is to keep people safe – on the slopes, roads, licensed venues and out and about in the alpine region,” Assistant Commissioner Cotter said.
“Those heading to the snow should drive to the conditions and exercise appropriate caution.
“Snowfield conditions can be more difficult to navigate so we’d like to remind everyone to prioritise safety on your journey – pay close attention to the roads, don’t get distracted and slow down.
“Our officers will do all they can to keep you safe to and from the snowfields, and regardless of whether you’re driving, riding, a passenger copor a pedestrian, we urge you to help us achieve this.”
NSW Police are also urging hikers visiting the region to ensure their personal safety by submitting a Trip Intention Form and hiring a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) before heading out into the national park.
A state-wide traffic operation will run throughout the Queen’s Birthday long weekend beginning at 12.01am Friday 10 June 2022 and ending at 11:59pm on Monday 13 June 2022. Double demerits will be in force throughout this period.