A total of 292 people have died on NSW roads in 2016, 36 more than last year.

With an increased amount of people on the roads and undertaking long journeys, police have warned road users to be cautious.

Not only will many residents be making trips up and down the coast to capitalise on their extra downtime, but many travellers will use nearby main arterial roads for their journeys.

As with all long weekend periods, double demerits will apply for speeding, seat belt and helmet offences and illegal use of mobile phones.

Double demerits are in force from midnight September 29 through to midnight October 3.

Hume Local Area Command (LAC), Bowral duty officer Inspector John Klepczarek said driver fatigue and drink driving were of particular concern to police on long weekends.

“This weekend especially, police will be out in force – not only because of the long weekend but also because of the AFL and NRL grand finals,” he said.

Inspector Klepczarek said police were aware many people would attend licensed premises or backyard parties to celebrate these occasions and back their favourite team. However, he encouraged all drivers to plan ahead about how they would get home after their night out.

“As always, we encourage everyone to celebrate in moderation and have a Plan B prepared in case you get caught up in the moment. If you drink and drive, you will face the consequences,” he said.

With many drivers undertaking long journeys, travellers are advised to follow the road safety message to stop, revive and survive.

As part of Operation Slow Down this long weekend, police across the state will be out on patrol to enforce safe driving practices during double demerit period.

“This police operation isn’t about spoiling people’s fun or putting a dampener on celebrations, but to ensure as best as we can the safety of the public and road users,” Inspector Klepczarek said.

Road-related fatalities in the past 12-month period have increased by 17 per cent, and police have urged drivers not to become a statistic.

“Police are more determined than ever to try and ensure no more lives are lost on our region’s roads.”