Garda Barbara Kelly came into school today to speak to our three 2nd classes about the role of the Guard and Road Safety. She then spoke to our three 6th classes about Internet safety.

Here is some useful tips from the RSA abut coming and going from school safely.

Research shows that children under 12 should not cross roads on
their own. They cannot decide how far away a car is or how fast it is going. They should be taken to school by aresponsible adult. Children should wear high visibility clothing when out walking. If there is no footpath, you must walk as near as possible to the right-hand side of the road (facing oncoming traffic). Choose a safe route to school and keep hold of your child’s hand at all times. Don’t allow your child to cross the road between parked cars. This is very dangerous as a driver will not be able to see your child. Show your child how to cross the road by example. Choose safe places to cross and explain the reasons why to your child i.e. footbridges, zebra or pelican crossings, with a Garda, an adult warden or junior school wardens. Ensure that your child always stops at the edge of the footpath, and always put the Safe Cross Code (see overleaf) into practice. After some weeks assess your child’s understanding by asking him/her to bring you across the road. The best person to teach your child to cross the road safely is you. But remember, a child will do as you do, not as you say. So set the good example yourself!

Driving your child to school

Children should be secured in the back seat in a restraint appropriate to their weight and height. Children who are under 150cms in height and weighing less than 36 kilograms must use the correct child restraint when travelling in cars or goods vehicles. Ensure they cannot open doors or windows. Children should never be left alone in a vehicle, even for a brief period.Set down and collect your children on the school side of the road whenever
possible. Never park opposite and call your child. You must not park where parking is prohibited by a traffic sign or roadway
markings. Children are most vulnerable when crossing the road between parked cars. Not only will the child be unable to see approaching cars, drivers will not see the child. Co-operate with school wardens.Drivers, please give cyclists plenty of room.
Set a good example to children by always wearing your safety belt.

Cycling
Research shows that children under 12 do not have the skills
and experience required to be safe in traffic on their own and should only cycle accompanied by an adult or responsible person.
Parents should decide whether their child is fit to cycle on public
roads. When doing so they should be confident that their child
possesses the appropriate skills and training. It is important that
your child understands and is protected against potential hazards.
Children should be taught that a bicycle is a vehicle and must follow the same rules as other road users. Impress on your children that traffic lights apply to cyclists too and that Red means Stop.
Cyclists are advised to use cycle tracks where provided. By law, cycle tracks must be used as part of a pedestrian street/area or as part of a a contra flow cycle track. Where there is no cycle track, cycle on the left-hand side of the road. Ensure the bicycle is a suitable size for your child and that he/she can comfortably apply the brakes. Check that the bicycle’s brakes, lights, reflectors, tyres and bell arein good working order.
Make sure your child is highly visible and wears a reflective belt
and bright clothes. The higher the visibility, the lower the risk.
Because of their vulnerability cyclists should, in their own interest, wear protective headgear at all times. While it is not a legal requirement it is strongly recommended that cyclists wear a
helmet suitable for their head size and ensure it is fitted correctly.
For more information on safe cycling see www.rsa.ie