The corps marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has called on drivers to imbibe precautionary measures while driving during the rainy season.

Mr Mohammed gave the charge in a statement by the corps public education officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Saturday in Abuja.

He said it was necessary to caution drivers across the country, arising from the forecasted heavy rainfall expected as the season progresses.

The corps marshal explained that driving in the rain could be risky because visibility was reduced and there were usually hazardous and slippery road conditions.

“As such, motorists are always urged to take precautions while driving in order to ensure they reach their destinations safely.

“They should also routinely check the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights. The windshield wiper and blades should also be checked for proper functioning.

“A situation where drivers use towels to improvise for wipers while on transit is not acceptable. The lights should be on during the day and at night, whenever rain starts dropping,” he said.

Mr Mohammed advised motorists to reduce their speed during this time and apply the “common sense speed limit”, particularly because the road surface was often slippery.

He also admonished drivers to ensure that their tyres were not worn out for adequate grip on the road.

“Vehicle tyres are amongst the most crucial elements, and the only part that is in connection with the road, which is why the condition of tyres is very essential,” he maintained.

To guide drivers through these safety precautions, the corps marshal also directed commanding officers across the country to assume the duties of traffic calming.

The FRSC boss also directed them to increase public enlightenment and improve enforcement of wipers and tyres during this season as a major priority.

He, however, advised drivers who could not drive safely under special weather conditions to stay off the road for their own safety and that of other road users.

(NAN)