Be patient and stay safe

Police are urging the community of Canterbury to be patient and stay safe as tiredness and emotional fatigue takes its toll.

With the weekend looming many families may be considering a break away from the District but Police are urging motorists to think very carefully before getting behind the wheel.

"We were incredibly lucky that Saturday's earthquake didn't result in any fatalities," said Superintendent Dave Cliff. "It would be an even greater tragedy if someone survived the quake only to loose their lives in the road through the resulting fatigue. Yesterday we dealt with a crash where a motorist with his family in the car had no idea how he came to be on the other side of the road. Thankfully no one was hurt but it is a harsh reminder that we all have to be extra careful at the moment."

Drivers should make sure they are properly rested before taking to the roads. If a trip is essential share the driving and take plenty of breaks.

Supt Cliff is also urging families to be patient with one another as Police in the area experience an increase in family violence reports. The numbers are only small - approximately 15 per day - but they are higher numbers than normal.

"It is a very traumatic time for so many people; having to deal with the stresses of building inspections, money worries and uncertainty around jobs and homes. Please be patient, talk to one another, care for one another. Recovery from this earthquake will take time but we have already witnessed truly spirited resilience and maintaining that is what will see us all through," said Supt Cliff.

Operation Reassurance has been initiated by Police to help the local community. Police staff from Canterbury have been joined by officers from elsewhere in the country and Army personnel to provide an increased visible presence around the District and police officers will also be working within welfare centres.

"These teams will be patrolling the areas keeping an eye on properties and offering support to members of the community. If you have any concerns talk to these staff or don't hesitate to ring us."

The diminishing of cordons will also be met by an increase in 24/7 patrolling by police officers and by police dogs to maintain security and provide further reassurance. A zero tolerance approach will be taken with anyone who feels they can take advantage of the current situation.

A final message is to avoid the centre of the City unless essential. Considering there are limited businesses operating in the centre there are unusually high traffic levels and congestion, so it has to be assumed many motorists are just travelling to the centre just to look at the damage. This is causing problems to those with a genuine need to be in the centre and also to public transport.

ENDS

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