FIRE bosses have named mobile phones and alcohol as the two biggest causes of crashes.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service has issued advice this Road Safety Week to prevent road traffic collisions occurring this winter.

A spokesman for Ulverston Fire Station Watch Manager said using your mobile phone whilst driving can have 'devastating effects' .

He said: "A massive factor involving road traffic accidents is people using mobile phones whilst driving.

"When driving and your phone lights up, it's very tempting to check it but even taking your eyes off the road for two seconds can have devastating effects.

"You are also 23 times more likely to crash. This amounts to nearly 25 per cent of all car accidents.

"So please before starting any journey we recommend you place your phone in a safe place like a glove box or simply switch it off, so you have no chance of being distracted."

The crew also urged drivers never to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

"Nationwide more alcohol is consumed over the festive period," he said.

"Unfortunately this increases the number of drunk driving related incidents.

"As little as half a pint of lager can affect your reaction times, judgment and co ordination.

"Every year over 3,000 people are killed or seriously injured in drink driving collisions.

"If you know you will be driving at any point, do not drink any alcohol before getting behind the wheel, use a taxi or ask someone to drive you.

"Even if you've had a good sleep before, this does not necessarily mean you are fit to drive the next day."