Road safety tips for children

Parents, guardians, do not just tell your son or daughter how to use the roads safely, you should also show them. Going out with your children to model safe behaviour on the road will help to get the safety message through even more clearly. Here are some important safety tips for children:

When Walking on the street

- Choose a safe walking route. Do not take shortcuts, and avoid lonely roads or walkways.

- Try to walk with other students. There is strength in numbers.

- Go straight home after school. Do not go anywhere without permission.

- Before crossing the street, look right, look left, and then left again.

- Where possible, only cross at designated crossings, street corners and intersections with traffic lights.

- Raise your hands high above your head to let the driver of a nearby vehicle know you want to cross. Make eye contact with the driver before crossing.

- Don’t push or shove each other or play in the street.

- Avoid talking to strangers. If a stranger approaches or tries to make contact with you, move away – fast. Report this to your teacher or parent.

- Never get into a vehicle with anyone without your parent’s permission, even if you know the person.

- Keep alert when walking on the street. Do not daydream, and never walk on the street while talking on your phone or texting.

When taking a bus

- When waiting for the bus, stay off the street, and avoid playing around.

- Make sure the bus has come to a complete stop before getting on or off.

- Do not shout or distract the driver.

- If you are going to cross the street after you get off of the bus, do so in front of the bus; and make sure the driver can see you before you leave the sidewalk.

- Never run into the street or cross from in-between parked cars.

When travelling in a car

- Always wear your seat belt.

- Do not play loud music.

- Do not distract the driver by pointing out things on the street.

- Make sure that small children sit in the back.

Safety advice courtesy of Hear The Children’s Cry

26 Haining Road, Kingston 5

Telephone: 876- 29-0431, 876-822-0483 or email: hearthechildrenscry@yahoo.com