If you can’t pay, don’t pump. This is the clear message from police to drivers who fill up with fuel and do not pay.
As part of an ongoing management and review of crime trends within the Sunshine Coast Police District, the prevalence of drive-offs was identified.
A common reason identified for failing to pay for fuel is lack of funds in bank accounts, so reminder stickers will be placed on to fuel bowsers to prompt customers to check to see if they have money in their accounts prior to pumping.
Local service stations are extremely happy to work in partnership with the police to reduce this type of offence and believe that drivers need to be aware that service station operators will be reporting all non-payment of fuel to police.
Secure your bikes, or else
In another crime trend, a total 246 bicycles were stolen in the Sunshine Coast in the past 12 months, with a large percentage of them left unsecured.
Let’s reduce this opportunist type crime by securing our bicycles with an Australian standard bike lock and chain.
Ideally, the first lock should go around the back wheel, the frame and a secure bike rack or structure.
Think about taking a photo of your bike and noting down any relevant serial numbers and engraving your driver’s licence on it.
If you have had your bike stolen, report it as it may have been handed in to police.
Road rule reminder: U turns
When can you do a U-turn in Queensland at traffic lights?
You can only make a U-turn at traffic lights when there is a U-turn permitted sign. When you are doing a U-turn, you must give way to all other vehicles and pedestrians, even if other vehicles are facing a give way or stop sign. You must also not do a U-turn across a single or double continuous centre line.
The penalties for making U–turns at intersections controlled by traffic lights (no sign) are a $110 fine and 2 demerit points.
This column is compiled by Acting Sergeant Sandy Atkinson of the Sunshine Coast District Crime Prevention Unit.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
