World Cup safety warning from North-East firefighters
Firefighters are warning football fans of the serious consequences of driving under the influence as they get ready to cheer on England in the World Cup.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) is urging supporters to not risk having even one drink if they are planning on driving somewhere to watch the match.
The appeal comes as new CDDFRS data showing a 20.9% spike in road traffic collisions on England match days during the Euros and World Cup (2016–2024).
To raise awareness, crews have given a demonstration to showcase how they respond to road traffic collisions and carry out complex rescues when individuals become trapped inside vehicles.
CDDFRS station manager Kevin Bell said: “We want people to have a great time watching the World Cup this summer, but we are urging fans to leave their car keys at home if they’re planning to drink.
“Don’t even be tempted to have one drink as it can so easily lead to more and potentially have devastating consequences.
“Our firefighters have tragically seen this first hand when they are called out to attend road traffic collisions across County Durham and Darlington.
“Please don’t take the risk.
“Either be the designated driver and stick to non-alcoholic drinks or plan your transport home beforehand.”
Alun Ross, Manager of the Critical Care and Hazardous Area Response Teams at North East Ambulance Service, added: “ We want people to enjoy themselves, but we also want them to think, plan, ensure that if they are going to have a drink, they’ve got an option to get home, that the car doesn’t become tempting.”
CDDFRS has warned that drinking or using drugs, slows down reaction times making it more difficult to drive safely.
The service added that it’s important to remember that people might still be affected the day after drinking, and could lose their licence if they drive while still over the legal limit.