Keep children safe outside the school gates

With students returning to school this week, motorists are being urged to follow road rules to keep kids safe.

Wyndham City’s Safer Communities portfolio holder, Cr Kim McAliney said safety around schools was paramount, and is the responsibility of all road users.

“Schools are busy places, and it is often difficult to park during these peak periods,” Cr McAliney said.

“We understand that it can be difficult to find a legal park during these peak periods, so we ask parents and carers to take extra care to make sure they are parked safe and legally to ensure the safety of children.”

“When driving your child to school it’s a great idea to leave early, allowing extra time to deal with any unexpected traffic. Follow the school’s designated drop-off and pick-up routes to ensure the traffic keeps flowing, and so that all kids are safe or consider alternative transport such as walking or cycling to school.”

“It is also important to pay attention to the direction given by school crossing supervisors. They are there to ensure the safety of children and road users – so keep an eye out for them and their signs, and do as they instruct.”

“As school crossing supervisors help keep children safe, motorists sometimes put their lives in danger by driving right through when the crossing when they are attempting to stop traffic.”

“This is dangerous to the supervisor and children and registration numbers of vehicles who conduct this reckless practice will be reported to police.”

“Look for parking restriction signs and make sure to obey them. Even if there are no signs, it’s the driver’s responsibility to park in a safe and legal manner.”

“If you are parking your car, make sure you park in designated areas and avoid illegal parking on nature strips.”

Parking in school crossing zones, double parking, parking near bus stops, on nature strips, and within non-stopping zones are the most common offences.

“Those who choose to park illegally face the very real risk of receiving an infringement for doing so.”

Cr McAliney said it was also important to slow down around schools, especially at drop-off and pick-up times.

“It’s just as important to make sure our kids are doing all they can to keep themselves safe. Teach them to always cross at the crossing, stick to the footpath and be aware of their surroundings.”

For more information about road safety around schools please visit https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/road-safety-education/improving-safety-around-our-schools