Police have warned drivers to be aware of the “Faschingszoll” – the carnival toll – groups out on the roads today.

In many places, especially in residential areas, children often hold a rope across the road to stop cars and demand a “toll”.

This tradition carries a certain amount of danger with it, for a number of reasons.

Some motorists may not be prepared to stop and the children need to recognise this and let go of their rope in time or let it drop to the ground.  Others may fail to see the rope in time at dusk.  In both cases the children involved risk being injured.

Parents and guardians are advised to talk about the danger of the “Faschingzoll” with their children to avoid such risks.

Meanwhile the police themselves are out stopping motorists at the moment to make sure people are not driving home from the many parties under the influence of alcohol or drugs.