'We can't rest on our laurels' Hunter police warn ahead of long-weekend

Double demerit penalties are in force until midnight of Monday for speeding, drink-driving, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet-related offences.

Extra police will also be out making sure there is not a spike in alcohol-related violence or misbehaviour - with this weekend being the first that licensed venues are allowed to have more than 10 people on since the global coronavirus pandemic began, prompting weeks of strict measures designed to stop people needlessly going out in public.

"This is the first weekend since the easing of the restrictions with the health orders," Superintendent Brett Greentree told reporters in Newcastle on Friday afternoon.

"We do anticipate there will be a lot of people out and about this weekend because it's the long-weekend, we also anticipate there is going to be a lot of cars on the road.

"A real safety message we'd like to get through to the locals - we do anticipate a lot of people travelling and we will have extra police out and about and on the roads in particular, targeting things like speed, drug and alcohol driving, distraction offences and also fatigue.

"I understand some of the [COVID-19] conditions have eased, the community have generally been really, really good.

"We've seen a decrease in the number of infringements in the last month in particular so that tells me the community are certainly aware of what the restrictions are, but we can't rest on our laurels, it's still a dangerous time."

Police on Friday launched Operation Stay Alert - the annual Queen's Birthday long-weekend operation.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy said drivers could "expect to see plenty of officers out on our streets, enforcing the road rules and ensuring that all road users reach their destination safely".

"And now with stationary RBT and RDT operational again alongside our mobile testing, there won't be anywhere you can hide if you've consumed alcohol or prohibited drugs," Assistant Commissioner Corboy said in a statement.

"So slow down, put your phone away and have a Plan B if you are consuming alcohol - otherwise, you'll meet with one of our officers who will take the appropriate action."

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