WITH sunnier weather having at last arrived in Donegal, Gardaí are appealing to visitors to beauty spots not to block emergency access routes.
The sun is out and people have started to travel to local beauty spots and forests for exercise and family days out after such a prolonged spell of bad weather. But, with greater footfall to the popular sites, motorists are being urged to park responsibly and ensure they do not block access for emergency vehicles and local residents.
The call comes following a number of incidents in recent years at various piers including Downings and Bunbeg, where emergency services were blocked from gaining access.
A garda spokesperson said: “Obstruction is an offence under road traffic legislation which could result in the seizure of a vehicle. We ask all visitors to beauty spots over the coming months to please park responsibly and to ensure that they are not blocking access for emergency vehicles and local residents.”
Gardaí have also urged all visitors to take their rubbish home with them and to never leave any valuables in their car such as jewellery, cash or electronics.
Anyone who sees any suspicious activity around parked cars while out is urged to alert Gardaí immediately.
“We ask people to always report any sort of unusual or suspicious activity that they see in their area immediately to Gardaí. If you do witness any such activity please note descriptions of people, cars, and registration plates.”
People are also asked to keep an eye out for neighbours, particularly for those who live alone and the more vulnerable over the summer months.
Gardaí say for those who have not reviewed their home security in a while, now is good time to do so.
“Check that the windows and doors are secure and please ensure that they are closed/locked when the property is vacant. Set your alarm when the house is not occupied. Do not leave implements such as ladders, tools outside your home. Ensure that your home is well lit up, particularly outside and try to keep trees/hedges cut so that there is a good view of your home from the road.
“Do not keep large amounts of cash at home and if you have valuables such as jewellery then please invest in a safe and ensure that it is well secured within the house. Store all keys away from windows and out of sight.”
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