PRESS RELEASE

14July 2014

GEM publishes revised personal safety advice

NEW PERSONAL SAFETYadvice has been published by GEM Motoring Assist. The advice, supported by Chief Constable Suzette Davenport (National Lead on Roads Policing), is aimed at solo travellers and focuses on identifying situations were safety and security risks could be increased.

GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: "Whether it's a motorway breakdown, a ‘road rage' incident, a medical emergency or a walk through a dark car park, you can increase your safety when you recognise what risks could be there, and plan how to reduce them.

"The vast majority of road journeys will be free from incident or threat, but every now and then we may have reason to be concerned. Our advice covers not only dangerous, high-risk scenarios but also the everyday situations that we may not otherwise see as risky.

"For example, if you're making a journey after dark, it makes sense to let someone at your destination know what route you'll be taking and what time you expect to get there. Then, on your journey, keep doors locked and windows shut, especially in town. Don't store possessions on the passenger seat, and park somewhere conspicuous and well lit."

Chief Constable Suzette Davenport says: "There fears and vulnerabilities faced by people travelling on their own in the UK are relatively low, compared with other countries. But there is often pressure on us to drive longer and later, so it makes sense to plan the routes you take and the locations where you park, so that any risks to your safety are minimised."

The personal safety advice comes in a convenient free online PDF document, downloadable fromwww.motoringassist.com/leaflets. Supplies of leaflets are also available. Please call GEM on 01342 825676 (Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm) or emailleaflets@motoringassist.com

Follow GEM on Twitter @MotoringAssist for the latest industry news.

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Notes for editors

GEM Motoring Assist provides two levels of recovery service; Recovery EXTRA and Recovery RECLAIM, to suit all needs and pockets. All GEM policies also include free Accident Management, so members are also fully covered in this area. 

GEM provides a unique, comprehensive and competitively-priced Roadside Assistance and Vehicle Recovery Service. GEM has also been voted number one for Breakdown Cover in the 2013, 2011, 2010 and 2008 Auto Express Driver Power Survey, and runners-up in 2012 and 2009. 

GEM Motoring Assist is a trading name of The Guild of Experienced Motorists, established in 1932, as an independent driver-based road safety association. GEM's aim is to improve safety for all road users through the sponsorship and initiation of accident prevention measures throughout the UK and to provide motoring and safety information to its own members. Member benefits include a quarterly magazine, free literature and advice and discounts on insurances and other services. 

Press information: David Williams MBE, Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist, is available for comment on 01342-825676 (office) or 07711450560 (mobile).  David Williams was awarded the MBE in 1998 for services to road safety. Alternatively you can emailpress@motoringassist.comfor any further information.