Road Safety: RSA ASKS MOTORISTS TO WATCH OUT FOR CHILDREN THIS SUMMER

As primary schools nationwide close for the summer holidays, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking motorists to be aware of children when using the roads and to take extreme care when driving. Parents and guardians are also being reminded to teach their children about road safety and ensure they play safely during the summer holidays.

Mr Noel Brett, CEO of the RSA said: “All around the country, primary school children are looking forward to their summer holidays as schools to close until September. It’s an exciting time for them but it’s important for all of us who use the roads to be extra cautious. During the summer months, children will be spending more time outdoors. We don’t want what should be a time of fun and games to turn to tragedy. So we would ask all road-users to be aware of children cycling or walking on the road, or playing near the road, particularly when driving through residential areas.”

The RSA is also reminding parents to teach their children the importance of road safety and ensure that underage children are supervised if walking or cycling .

“It’s really important for parents and guardians to teach their child just how important it is to be safe on the road as they are our most vulnerable road-users. Your child will learn from what you do, so make sure you always set the right example. When you get into the car, put on your seatbelt, no matter how short the journey. Make sure your children are safe on their bicycles by ensuring they wear a helmet and high visibility clothing. And if they are playing in an area where there are cars, make sure they play safely,” he added.

The RSA has the following advice for parents and motorists:

Travelling by Car:

• Motorists, be aware of children when driving, particularly through residential areas

• All children should be restrained when travelling in a car

• Select a restraint that is based on your child’s weight and height and is suitable for the type of car

• Remember it’s safer if children travel in the rear of a car

• Never leave children alone in a car

Walking:

• Small children should not cross roads alone. They cannot decide how far away a car is or how fast it is going

• Children walking on country roads should wear reflective armbands and bright clothing

• If there is no footpath, walk on the right-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic keeping as close as possible to the side of the road

• Show your child how to cross the road by example. Choose safe places to cross and take time to explain why i.e. footbridges, zebra or pelican crossings

Cycle Safety:

• Make sure they are highly visible by wearing a reflective belt and bright clothes and wear a bicycle safety helmet on all journeys

• Check that the bicycle’s brakes, lights, reflector and bell are in good working order

For further information please contact: RSA Communications Office 096 - 25008

Post by: Patrick James