Carmarthenshire residents urged to stay Cab Safe

RESIDENTS in Carmarthenshire are being warned about the dangers of using illegal taxis.

The Community Safety Partnership (CSP) is urging people to use a licensed cab to get home safely and reminding them of the Cab Safe text service.

Just text CAB to 83222 to receive contact numbers for three licensed taxi and private car hire companies in their area.

The system works by locating the sender via their mobile phone signal and automatically sends them a text for the nearest taxi firms.

Launched in 2006 by the CSP and the council’s licensing section, the service is not-for-profit and self-financing, with support from more than 80 taxi companies from across the county.

Letters were sent out to 500 licensed premises before the Six Nations Rugby Tournament asking them to display the posters to publicise Cab Safe.

Although there have been no problems with rogue taxis locally, with the lighter nights and summer fast approaching, another reminder is going out.

Chair of the CSP’s Violent and Alcohol-related Crime Action Group and the council’s Head of Public Protection Philip Davies said: “Residents should make sure that the taxi is properly licensed before they get in. Not only is getting into a car with a complete stranger very dangerous, particularly late at night, but if it is unlicensed, you will not be insured.

“We are urging people to be on their guard and if in doubt to use the Cab Safe text service for reassurance that the taxi picking them up is properly licensed.”

There have been numerous reports of serious attacks by unlicensed drivers in other parts of the country. Some of these incidents occurred because the people were unable to get a licensed taxi or did not know the telephone numbers for any in that area and started to walk home late at night or go in search of a cab.

Community Safety Manager Kate Thomas said: “Fortunately, we have not had any such incidents in Carmarthenshire. However, we should not become complacent and hopefully initiatives such as Cab Safe will help to ensure that such incidents do not happen in the county in future.”

For further information or to report an unlicensed cab contact the council’s licensing section on 01267 234567.