Signal blocking pouches given to students to halt mobile phone use while driving

by Gráinne Connolly

Road Safety concerns have been raised by a number of emergency services recently in relation to the use of mobile phones while driving.

Between April and July 2017, in the Council area PSNI issued 55 prosecutions or fixed penalty notices for use of a mobile phone while driving.
   

In response to those concerns Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) has worked alongside PSNI and NI Fire and Rescue Service to provide signal blocking pouches for mobile phones in a bid to deter young people from becoming distracted when driving.

The first of the pouches were provided to pupils from Lisneal College who attended the NIFRS Insight Programme recently at Crescent Link Fire Station.
 

Speaking on behalf of Derry and Strabane PCSP, Chairman Alderman Drew Thompson said: 

“We have listened to the concerns of our partners in the emergency services and are aware that the problem of using a mobile phone whilst driving is becoming more of an issue which can potentially have fatal consequences.

“It only takes a split second for someone to become distracted by a phone call or text.

“The use of these pouches will ensure that drivers cannot see or hear any notifications on their phones meaning they can fully concentrate of their driving.”

(Lisneal College students at Crescent Link Fire Station with Derry and Strabane PCSP, local PSNI and Fire and Rescue Services)