Guest blog: Community Speed Watch Volunteers
So, you have never heard of ‘CSW’. Then read on. My name is Ashley Reay and I am the lead of some 32 CSW schemes in Mendip. I had some spare time many years ago and am happy to take part in this volunteering work that although unpaid, is so worthwhile.
Read below to get a flavour of what CSW is all about.
CSW stands for Community Speed watch…….it is a community and police joint initiative designed to slow traffic down and make the motorist aware of their speed and, and, if travelling too fast slow down.
How is it done then? Teams of two, or more, wearing high vis jackets stand at the roadside using speed recording equipment to check those thought to be travelling at excess speeds. Those recorded speeding are then sent a warning letter by the police and in persistent or high-speed cases get a visit from the police to discuss their driving. Tax and insurance details are also checked by the police.
Surely then a waste of time? I have been doing this for 15 years and find that 80% of vehicles slow down when they see you, achieving the target of getting them to slow down and be aware.
I’m still not convinced …Well, all motorists sent a letter are put on the police database and if speeding continues will have their details passed to the Specialist Speed Enforcement Unit who will have all the data and turn up to check the persistent offender and if caught. Fines, prosecution and possible disqualification can follow.
My mate stopped and gave them a real ear bashing and threatened to throw away their kit. Not at all wise the police take a very dim view of this, and your mate will shortly get a visit and possibly be prosecuted. Ask, by all means as to the nature of their actions but leave out and anger as it will not be tolerated.
So, this CSW does in fact work? Yes, in most cases the object of slowing traffic down does work and those who refuse will be targeted by the police to ensure that they do comply.
To be honest I have thought about perhaps joining a scheme but have no idea how to go about it
There are some 2,000 CSW volunteers within Avon and Somerset who give as much, or as little of their time as they wish. One hour a week or even a month will suffice, and all volunteers get full police free training with absolutely no costs at all. All kit and equipment are absolutely free. The police come along also and support the CSW schemes at the roadside. You can use the link below to find out more
So then, you think CSW is worth it? Without a doubt and consider this…Do you want a knock on the door and there stands a police officer who tells you your loved one has been killed by a vehicle travelling Too fast? No surely not. You can help to prevent this and make drivers aware of their speed.
Do your research and come and join one of the fastest growing community schemes in Avon and Somerset