With Anzac Day approaching many people will be attending services across the western plains region.

Travellers are urged to pay attention to road closures in town centres where marches may be occurring.

Check in on the websites or social media of local councils should inform drivers of not only where ANZAC Day services will take place, but also street closures in your area.

On a broader scale, motorists should be aware that double demerit points will be in place for five days this ANZAC Day period which coincides with the end of the school holidays.

Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, is encouraging people to drive safely and take extra care on the roads.

"Double demerit points will be in place for all speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences between Wednesday 24 April and Sunday 28 April 2024 inclusive,” Ms Suitor said.

"This will be a busy period on local roads with school holidays coming to an end and visitors to our region returning home.”

Ms Suitor said the increase in traffic leads to an increased risk of crashes occurring and that every motorist has a part to play in keeping the roads safe.

"Watch your speed, drive to conditions, limit distractions in the car, ensure you and your passengers are wearing their seatbelt and don't drive if you have been drinking or consuming drugs.

"Pay attention to your fatigue levels, plan your trip and if you are experiencing any of the early warning signs like(tired eyes, yawning or poor concentration, stop and have a break.”

Double demerit periods typically fall during holiday periods or over long weekends and are enforced by police.

They apply throughout the whole of the start date, and end at midnight on the finish date.

Please drive safely and take extra care on the roads to protect yourself, your loved ones and all road users.

Unsure of what offences attract double demerits?

During double demerit periods, double demerit points apply for speeding, illegal use of mobile phones, not wearing a seat belt and riding without a motorcycle helmet.

Keep in mind that Mobile Phone Detection Cameras are active in NSW and the ACT and drivers caught using their phones during a double demerit period will be hit with a $352 fine ($469 in a school zone) and 10 demerits. 

One to keep in mind for next week is that certain driving and parking offences attract an additional demerit point if committed in an operating school zone Remember to always drive with care and attention through school zones. Be aware that failing to do so can come with heavy penalties.