Be safe in your car, FLOWER
This year’s theme, Safe Vehicles Save Lives, highlights the importance of vehicle safety in preventing collisions and reducing casualties. In 2024 in Telford and Wrekin there were 150 casualties, of which 37 were seriously injured with three fatalities, a reminder of how vulnerable everyday road users can be.
Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said: “We’re taking part in Road Safety Week to raise awareness of safe vehicles that prevent crashes and protect against death and injury.
“It’s a chance for us all to think about choices we make on journeys, take extra care when travelling, and remind ourselves that safety begins with each of us.
“Whether you’re driving to school or walking to the shops, the choices we make can save lives. Small actions like slowing down, giving space, and staying alert can make a big difference.”
Brake, the charity behind the campaign advise that a well-maintained vehicle is a fundamental part of being a safe road user and this simple FLOWER mnemonic, helps make some important vehicle checks easier to remember:
- F = Fuel – enough for your journey
- L = Lights – headlights, brake lights, indicators
- O = Oil – check levels when the engine is cold
- W = Water – lubricants, coolants, washer fluid
- E = Electrics – battery present and secure
- R = Rubber – tyre pressure, tread depth, side wall damage
Brake also emphasises that every road crash is a preventable tragedy and calls on people to take three simple but critical actions:
- Inspect your vehicle before every journey – check tyres, lights, seat belts, and child seats (FLOWER checks).
- Choose the safest vehicles when buying or leasing – and ensure safety features are activated and maintained.
- Educate children about road safety – and consistently model safe behaviour.
To support this initiative, Telford & Wrekin Council and West Mercia Police hosted a community safety event on Tuesday, 19 November, outside Windmill Primary School.
Officers provided free vehicle safety checks, distributed educational materials, and offered expert advice to families about how to keep themselves and others safe when on the roads. Children also had the chance to meet mascots Rocky (Travel Telford) and PD Peeler (West Mercia Police), reinforcing safety messages in a fun and engaging way.
Telford & Wrekin Council continues to work in partnership with West Mercia Police and other agencies to reduce road casualties through education, enforcement, and infrastructure improvements. Visit https://www.brake.org.uk/ for more help and advice.
