Rain showers are forecast across much of South Australia today, prompting a reminder to motorists to both drive safely on potentially wet and greasy roads and check their vehicles ahead of the approaching winter weather.
In particular police urge motorists to slow down and allow greater distances between vehicles and use lights where appropriate particularly if lighting and visibility is poor.
When it rains for the first time after weeks of dry conditions, the first showers can make roads quite slippery, so brake with care.
Do not allow distractions such as mobile phones to compromise your driving and road safety.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast that a cold front will move over the west of the State today and weaken as it approaches a line near Coober Pedy to Goolwa in the late evening.
There is a slight to moderate chance of showers in the west, extending across nearly all of South Australia, increasing to a high to very high chance over western and central parts south of Coober Pedy. Evening showers are forecast in Adelaide. (More details of the forecast are online here: http://www.bom.gov.au/sa/forecasts/state.shtml )
In light of the impending showers, Police are reminding the community that this is a good time to check your vehicle is ready for the onslaught of winter.
Check that your tyres are in good condition, that wiper blades are working well, and that your vehciles lights and indicators are functioning.
With students back at school drivers need to be cautious and aware that children will potentially be crossing wet roads across the Eyre Western Local Service Area this afternoon.
For those travelling long distances ensure you are using your lights to assist visibility, do not overtake unless it is clear, wear your seatbelt and obey the road speed limits.
The State Emergency Service is also advising residents to check that their gutters, downpipes and drains are clear so that stormwater can flow freely away and not back into their homes.
SES Chief of Staff Derren Halleday said: "It's been a very dry start to 2019 so we know that leaf litter, twigs and other material will be blocking gutters, downpipes and drains."
"This can result in significant damage to homes, especially if gutters overflow and the stormwater flows back into the roof cavity."
Mr Halleday said that SES volunteers will be on standby should residents require emergency flood and storm assistance.
"The best number to call for SES assistance is 132 500 or dial Triple Zero if it is a life-threatening situation."
