IT ISN’T OFTEN CONSIDERED, but Ramadan, a holy month and a time of reflection for Muslims, can carry risks on the road.
Muslims are required to avoid eating or drinking anything between sunrise and sunset every day until Ramadan ends on Sunday 1 May 2022.
Fasting for any reason can cause dehydration and low blood sugar levels, leading to exhaustion, slower reactions and a difficulty in focusing on the tasks required for safe driving.
Fortunately, Ramadan in Australia falls in autumn, so the risks aren’t as high as they are in countries where temperatures are higher during May, and days longer. However, fasting Muslims still face a long period each day without food or water.
Extended periods of fasting impact diet and digestion, which in turn can affect sleeping patterns, so Muslim participants need to take extra car when driving.
Slow down for the fast
Here are some road safety tips to reduce danger on the roads during Ramadan:
- If you are fasting, don’t rush on your road journeys. Be patient, and remember there will be other people on the road in the same situation as you.
- Use public transport or taxis if possible.
- If you drive for a living, you should take extreme care.
- If you feel tired, dizzy or weak, then you will not be able to concentrate on driving safely and you must stop to rest.
- Fatigue is a significant risk. Recognise the early symptoms and don’t try to fight them.
- Plan your schedule so you don’t have to rush anywhere to be home for food and drink.
- Don’t drive during the night, and use this time to get good rest.
- Take more frequent breaks on long distance journeys.