RUNCORN firefighters have been raising awareness among Halton drivers about the dangers of using a mobile phone at the wheel.
The team of firefighters, in partnership with Halton Road Safety Tea and Asda, spent two days giving out leaflets and advice to every motorist who visited the Asda petrol station, West Lane, Runcorn.
Research has shown that using a mobile phone while driving increases the likelihood of a crash by up to four times.
Firefighter John Monaghan said: 'There were two aims to this initiative; firstly we want to make our community safer by advising drivers not to use their phones at the wheel, secondly we want to warn the community of a change in the law.'
It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone when driving and, from February 27, a driver will receive a £60 fine and three penalty points on their license if caught.
Watch manager Sean Henshaw, said: 'Tests have shown us that driver reaction times are seriously impaired by using mobiles at the wheel.
'In fact, the reaction time of a driver on a mobile phone is 30% worse than for driving whilst drunk.'
