By Gabriella Payne
With Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 students returning to school part time this week, it’s a timely reminder to drivers to watch out for our school crossing supervisors and slow down around schools.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen reminded drivers that as we ease out of lockdown and back into a sense of normality, to stay aware while driving – particularly near schools.
“We may all be a bit out of practice when it comes to the school run so please slow down on our roads and pay extra attention around schools,” Cr Owen said.
“The beginning and end of the school day are hectic times for pedestrians and vehicles outside the school, so please take extra care in 40 km/h school zones.”
Some top tips for the return of the school run include parking safely and legally, even if it means walking further to the school gate; slowing down to 40 km/h in the school zone and staying aware of crossings; always turning legally and avoiding dangerous U-turns and three-point turns and observing the directions of the school crossing supervisor.
Cr Owen reminded parents and guardians to use the pick up and drop off areas suggested by their schools and if possible, encouraged them to ditch the car altogether and try walking to school for an active start to the day.
“When you can, walking to and from school is a great way to spend time with your children and encourage safe and healthy behaviours,” he said.
“Take the time to model road safe behaviour and then your kids can learn and practice with you.
“This will help them to be safer pedestrians when they are old enough to travel alone.”
Remind your child to STOP! LOOK! LISTEN! THINK! every time they cross the road and keep checking until everyone has safely made it across.
For more information about road safety in Cardinia Shire, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/roadsafety
