GWENT Police officers are offering seasonal safety advice now that clocks have gone back and the evenings are drawing out.

They say: “Mornings and early evenings will be getting darker, so if you are usually out walking, cycling or driving at these times please take more care.”

Follow these tips to help you stay safe:

Pedestrians and dog walkers

• Stick to well-lit areas and routes you are familiar with

• Be alert - don’t listen to music or wear earphones

• Make sure your phone is charged, but be careful if you are texting/ chatting on the phone, this can provide an unnecessary distraction and could be targeted by thieves

• Wear light colours and reflective/ high visibility jackets on a dull/ foggy day or in the evening/ at night

• Always choose a well-lit place when you cross the road

• Remember it takes drivers longer to stop a vehicle in wet or slippery conditions

Cyclists

• Wear light colours and reflective/high visibility jackets on a dull/ foggy day or in the evening/ at night

• Check tyres, lights and reflectors on your bike before you set off

• Always wear an approved cycle helmet

Motorists

• Make sure all the lights on your vehicles are working

• Make sure your tyres have sufficient tread, and are inflated to the correct pressure recommended by the manufacturer

• Check that your windscreen washer bottle is full and that wipers are in good working order

• Make sure your engine cooling system is topped up with anti-freeze

• Ensure vehicle windows are clear of ice and mist before starting a journey

• Carry de-icer spray in your vehicle

• Leave an appropriate gap between you and the vehicle in front, especially during wet or icy conditions

• Allow extra time for any journey in adverse weather conditions

• Only undertake journeys when absolutely necessary during severe weather

• Always wear a seatbelt

• Never use a mobile phone or hand held device whilst driving

• Never drink/ take drugs and drive