Watch For Children

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 34, 10 February 1987, Page 3 (Supplement)

Watch For Children

DRIVERS need to be aware that young children often do not understand how dangerous our roads can be. Children are easily distracted, often careless and frequently impulsive and sometimes confused. All of this leads to their behaviour being unpredictable. Drivers need to take this into account, particularly during the four critical hours 8am - 9am and 2pm - 5pm, when children are walking or cycling to school, on (heir way home, or play-

ing after school. Drivers should treat every child in the suburbs as though they were standing at a pedestrian crossing. They should anticipate situations and be ready to stop if necessary. While driving in the suburbs drivers should be careful near homes without fences, in case a child runs out. It is so easy for children to run across the road not looking or hearing traffic when they are playing. Take note of school patrolled crossings and road markings close to school patrols. Remember you must stop (and remain stopped) when the school patrol is going on or off duty, and when any sign is extended. Traffic wardens are school children who safely escort other children across the road. These wardens can operate in any situation, not necessarily at a pedestrian crossing. They need to be treated courteously by drivers.