COMMUTERS living in rural areas are being urged to take strict precautions against triggering new foot-and-mouth outbreaks as they travel to and from the countryside and town.

The Country Land and Business Association has called for motorists to thoroughly disinfect their vehicles before leaving home and before returning from work.

"This task, using a small pressure hose, would only take a few minutes each day," said regional director Geoffrey Hopton.

"It could make a great contribution to curbing the spread of foot-and-mouth disease and its terrible consequences."