Keep kids safe outside the school gates

With school coming back late January, Wyndham City wants everyone to come together to help keep our kids safe.

Safety around schools is the responsibility of all road users in Wyndham. As school goes back for the new term, we ask that everyone be mindful of traffic conditions near and around schools.

Wyndham City Mayor, Cr Adele Hegedich, said she knows how important it is for local families to feel their kids are safe as they make their way to and from school.

“It’s important for all road users to remember to slow down around schools, especially at drop-off and pick up times. There are reduced speed zones around schools in place between 8am and 9:30am and in the afternoons 2:30-4:00pm,” Cr Hegedich said.

“To help keep our kids safe remember to slow down in school speed zones during school times, be extra cautious around schools and be aware that young children can be unpredictable and difficult to see.”

“It’s just as important to make sure our kids are doing all they can to keep themselves safe. Teaching kids to cross at the supervised school crossing, stick to the footpath and be aware of their surroundings. If you drive your child to school, get your child into the habit of using the kerbside doors, away from traffic.”

Community Safety Portfolio Holder, Cr Susan McIntyre, encouraged parents to also be mindful of how they drop off and pick up kids from school.

“If you’re dropping or picking kids off at school, look for parking restriction signs and make sure to obey them.  Remember, it’s the driver’s responsibility to park in a safe and legal manner and avoid a fine,” Cr McIntyre said.  

“Don’t forget to allow extra time if you are a parent or carer dropping kids off at school and remember that double parking, parking in a no-stopping zone, parking on nature strips is illegal.”

“Remember it’s also important to pay attention to the direction given by school crossing supervisors. They are there to ensure the safety of children and roads users – so keep an eye for them and their signs and follow their instructions.”

“Lastly, active kids are healthy kids - many of Wyndham’s schools have Active Travel programs which is a great way for kids to get to school and provides a safe, active alternative.”

“Wyndham City Council is offering grant funding of $5,000 to primary schools (including P-9, & P-12) within the Wyndham municipality to participate in the Wyndham Active Travel To School program.”

“The program supports schools to reduce traffic congestion which will make it safer during drop off and pick up time while also increasing walking, riding and scooting to school which is great at keeping kids active and healthy.”

For more information on Wyndham Active Travel Schools Program visit our website: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/activetravelschoolsprogram

For more information on safety around Children’s Crossings visit Wyndham City’s website: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/roads-parking-transport/parking-regulations-fines/parking-signs-permits

For more information about school speed zones visit the VicRoads website: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/road-rules/a-to-z-of-road-rules/school-speed-zones