Leave blackouts, extra resources and increased patrols are part of the police plan to help motorists get through the busiest week of the year safely. 

Acting Senior Sergeant David McDonald of Warrnambool police said Operation Cross Roads would run until next Saturday as part of the wider SummerStay campaign. 

The operation is a nationwide operation focusing on high-risk factors associated with holiday driving, with a particular focus on speeding and fatigue. It will run until January 3 as part of a three-pronged campaign over the summer months. 

Acting Senior Sergeant McDonald said a number plate recognition vehicle would be in the area over the coming days, working in conjunction with local highway patrol units. 

“There is a leave blackout as well which means we have more members and more cars available for patrols,” he said. 

“Next week is usually very busy on the highways and roads as people continue their holiday celebrations.

“We want people to get to their destinations safely.” 

He said the message was for motorists to take it easy, drive safely and get plenty of rest.

“Fatigue and lapses of concentration are the main contributing factor to accidents on our highways.” 

Victoria Police’s Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill said members across the state would be out in force doing their very best to keep motorists safe. 

“But they need your help,” Assistant Commissioner Hill said. 

“Please stay focused, take regular breaks, put on your seatbelt, turn off your mobile phone and slow down.

“Simple mistakes and lapses in concentration can quite easily turn this time of celebration into a time of mourning.