A mid-week Christmas on Wednesday means there will be plenty of workers taking the chance for an extended break either side of the big day, and many of them will be hitting the road this weekend to spend the holidays with family.

That's nothing new, of course, and police will be out in force - as they are every year - trying to slow drivers down.

Double demerits are in place, meaning a single speeding offence could seriously threaten your licence, but even that won't be enough to stop thousands being caught.

What's different this year, though, is the terrible bushfire crisis still gripping the state that will inevitably see major roads and highways closed at different times in coming days.

More than ever, motorists need to plan ahead and be aware it might take a little longer than usual to get where they're going.

And with record high temperatures this weekend to further fray the nerves, that all adds up to a pressure cooker just waiting to explode.

But it doesn't have to be.

Everyone on the roads this weekend has somewhere to be and has family and friends waiting for them at the other end.

No one wants to be stuck in traffic or sitting at the side of the road, but there are far worse things than that.

If you feel yourself getting impatient behind the wheel, spare a thought for the firefighters out battling the blazes that might be slowing your trip.

If you're considering stepping on the gas to make up for lost time, take a moment to consider the lives you're risking - in your own car and in others'.

Take your time this weekend, and make sure you remain relaxed and in control.

Take a deep breath, take a sip of water - and be late if you have to be.

Your family, and other road users, will thank you for it.